Modern Utilitarianism: Or The Systems Of Paley, Bentham, And Mill Examined And Compared (1874)

Modern Utilitarianism: Or The Systems Of Paley, Bentham, And Mill Examined And Compared is a book written by Thomas Rawson Birks in 1874. The book is a critical analysis of the three prominent utilitarian philosophers of the time, namely William Paley, Jeremy Bentham, and John Stuart Mill. The book examines the fundamental principles of utilitarianism and compares the systems of the three philosophers, highlighting their similarities and differences. Birks provides a comprehensive overview of their ethical theories, including their views on pleasure, happiness, morality, and the role of the state in promoting the greatest good for the greatest number of people.Birks also critiques the weaknesses and limitations of the utilitarian philosophy, including its failure to account for individual rights and the potential for the majority to oppress the minority. He argues that a more nuanced approach to ethics is necessary, one that takes into account the complexity of human nature and the importance of individual autonomy.Overall, Modern Utilitarianism: Or The Systems Of Paley, Bentham, And Mill Examined And Compared is a thought-provoking and insightful analysis of one of the most influential ethical philosophies of the modern era.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

Birks was an Anglican clergyman, a fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge, and served for a time as Edward Bickersteth's curate. A leading evangelical theologian, Birks succeeded F.D. Maurice as the Knightsbridge Professor of Moral Philosophy at Cambridge University in 1872.