Evaluating Purchases Through the Lens of Utilitarianism: Maximizing Overall Happiness

Using the ethical theory of utilitarianism we’re studying this Unit, evaluate the things you’ve spent money on recently.
First, list some things you’ve spent money on in the past six months or so. Don’t just include the major, important stuff. List any fun or frivolous stuff you bought, if you did.
Next, consider your purchases from the perspective of utilitarianism. Did each of these purchases maximize overall net happiness? (Remember that utilitarianism is not a selfish theory, so the goal is not for you to maximize your own happiness. The goal is to maximize overall happiness, taking everyone’s happiness into account.) If some of your purchases did not max happiness, what could you have done differently with your money to maximize overall well-being?
Finally, consider what this activity tells you about your opinion of utilitarianism. Some critics say that utilitarianism is too demanding as an ethical theory. Do you agree with this criticism? Why or why not? Be sure to defend your opinion of this ethical theory.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

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Step 1: Understand the Assignment Requirements

In this assignment, you need to evaluate your recent purchases from the perspective of utilitarianism, an ethical theory that emphasizes maximizing overall happiness. First, you’ll list what you’ve spent money on in the past six months, then analyze whether each purchase maximized overall happiness. Finally, you’ll reflect on what this tells you about your views on utilitarianism and whether you think it’s too demanding as an ethical theory.

Step 2: List Your Recent Purchases

Start by listing everything you’ve spent money on over the past six months. This includes:

• Major purchases (e.g., rent, bills, groceries, transportation)
• Fun or frivolous purchases (e.g., entertainment, dining out, clothing, gadgets)
• Small, everyday items (e.g., coffee, snacks, subscription services)

Step 3: Analyze Each Purchase Using Utilitarianism

Now, evaluate each of your purchases through the lens of utilitarianism. For each purchase, ask yourself:

• Does this purchase maximize overall happiness?
  • Did this item benefit only you, or did it benefit others as well?
  • Was it something that added joy or utility to others, or was it just for personal enjoyment?
  • Did it have a positive or negative environmental or social impact?
• Was there a better way to use this money to increase overall happiness?
  • Could you have spent this money on something that benefits a larger group of people or has long-term positive effects?

For example:

• If you spent money on a subscription service, think about whether it improved your life in a way that also benefits your community (e.g., by providing educational content) or if it’s something that only adds to your personal entertainment without contributing to the well-being of others.
• If you dined out at a restaurant, consider whether the money went to a local business and helped employees, or whether you could have donated that same amount to a charity that would have helped others more.

Step 4: Reflect on Your View of Utilitarianism

After analyzing your purchases, think about what this activity tells you about your opinion of utilitarianism. Reflect on the following questions:

• Do you think it’s reasonable to consider the happiness of everyone when making purchases?
  • Is it practical to always maximize overall happiness with every decision you make, or are there some situations where focusing on personal happiness is justified?
  • Are there limits to how much you can think about others’ happiness in daily life? For example, how much responsibility do you have to address the happiness of people far away (e.g., in different countries)?
• Do you agree with the criticism that utilitarianism is too demanding?
  • Some critics argue that utilitarianism requires constant selflessness and can be difficult to apply in everyday life because it asks us to consider the well-being of everyone. Do you agree with this, or do you think utilitarianism offers a useful framework for making ethical decisions?

Step 5: Organize Your Post

Now, structure your response clearly. Here’s a suggested outline:

1. Introduction:
   • Briefly introduce utilitarianism and its focus on maximizing overall happiness.
   • State the purpose of the assignment: evaluating recent purchases through the lens of utilitarianism.
2. List of Purchases:
   • Provide a brief list of the things you’ve spent money on recently, including both important and fun purchases.
3. Utilitarian Evaluation:
   • For each purchase, evaluate it from the perspective of utilitarianism. Was the happiness generated from this purchase shared or exclusive? Could you have used the money differently to maximize happiness?
4. Reflection on Utilitarianism:
   • Reflect on your views about utilitarianism based on your evaluation.
   • Discuss whether you agree with the criticism that utilitarianism is too demanding, and provide reasons for your opinion.
5. Conclusion:
   • Summarize your main points and reflect on how utilitarianism could influence your future decision-making.

Step 6: Review and Revise Your Post

Once you’ve written your post, review it for clarity and coherence. Ensure your argument is logical and supported by examples. Check for any spelling or grammar mistakes, and make sure your ideas flow smoothly.

Step 7: Finalize Your Post

Once you’re satisfied with your revisions, format your post according to any guidelines provided (e.g., word count, citation style). After a final proofread, submit your discussion.

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