John Stuart Mill Says That Humans by Nature Desire Happiness

question 27

Multiple Choice

John Stuart Mill says that humans by nature desire happiness and nothing but happiness; therefore happiness is the standard by which we should judge human conduct, and therefore the principle of utility is at the heart of morality. But this argument is controversial, because

• A) it reasons from what is to what should be.
• B) it equivocates on the word "happiness."
• C) it is internally inconsistent.
• D) Mill failed to defend his theory.

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Definitions:

Logic

The study of the methods and principles used to distinguish correct or good arguments from poor arguments.

Reason

The power of the mind to think, understand, and form judgments logically.

Evidence

Justifications for accepting a statement or assertion as true or likely true.

Rational Discussion

A conversation or debate conducted with reason and logic, focusing on facts and evidence rather than emotions or personal biases.