Utilitarianism propounds the view that the value or rightness of an action rests in how well it promotes the welfare of those affected by it, aiming for 'the greatest happiness of the greatest number'. This book shows the creation and development of a system of ethics that has had an enduring influence on moral philosophy and legislative policy.

This volume includes the complete texts of two of John Stuart Mill's most important works, UTILITARIANISM and ON LIBERTY, and selections from his other writings, including the complete text of his REMARKS ON BENTHAM'S PHILOSOPHY. The selection from Mill's A SYSTEM OF LOGIC is of special relevance to the debate between those who read Mill as an Act-Utilitarian and those who interpret him as a Rule-

This volume includes the complete texts of two of John Stuart Mill's most important works, UTILITARIANISM and ON LIBERTY, and selections from his other writings, including the complete text of his REMARKS ON BENTHAM'S PHILOSOPHY. The selection from Mill's A SYSTEM OF LOGIC is of special relevance to the debate between those who read Mill as an Act-Utilitarian and those who interpret him as a Rule-

This volume makes available to a student one of the central texts in the utilitarian tradition and contains several important student aids, including a guide to further reading and a chronology of the principal events in Bentham's life.

Bentham's central concern during the 1810s and 1820s was with the codification of the law. The materials presented in this volume constitute not only the basis for a biography of Bentham during these years, but also an illuminating account of his mature legal and political theory.

Discusses the relevance of utilitarian thought upon various debates regarding punishment. This book argues that 'The Rationale of Punishment' is a model of applied philosophy that should be adapted to the debates that continue regarding the desire to prevent crime, compensate its victims, and promote the paramount vision of a truly good society.

The complete text of one of the earliest and best-known of Bentham's works, which sets out a profound and innovative philosophical argument. This edition includes H.L.A. Hart's classic essay on the work and a new introduction.