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 (1874) is a book written by Thomas Rawson Birks that explores the philosophical systems of three prominent utilitarian thinkers: William Paley, Jeremy Bentham, and John Stuart Mill. Utilitarianism is a moral and political theory that holds that the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or pleasure. Birks examines the similarities and differences between the three thinkers, comparing their views on ethics, politics, and religion. The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on one of the philosophers. The first part explores Paley's utilitarianism and his views on natural theology. The second part examines Bentham's utilitarianism and his ideas on law, government, and social reform. The final part looks at Mill's utilitarianism and his views on liberty, democracy, and individualism. Throughout the book, Birks critiques the utilitarian systems of these thinkers and offers his own ideas on the subject. Modern Utilitarianism is an important work in the history of philosophy and provides valuable insights into the development of utilitarian thought.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.