Reference no: EM133328287
Assignment:
(Respond to only two of the following questions)
1. Like Epicurus, Mill identifies barriers to human happiness. Mill differs from Epicurus, though, in that he identifies only two. What are these two barriers, and why does Mill believe they prevent happiness? How does one of these barriers connect to Mill's distinction between Higher and Lower pleasures? What is the nature of this distinction, and what purpose does it play in Mill's view? Lastly, how does Mill propose that these barriers to happiness be lifted?
2. Mill defends both freedom of speech and freedom of action. What is the basis for his argument in favor of these two liberties? What does he believe is the limit with regard to human freedom (i.e., when does he believe it is permissible to restrict the individual's behavior)? Why does Mill believe that harm to oneself is not grounds for restricting an individual's freedom? With regard to free speech, what does he believe is the goal of communication? Why does he believe a free-market approach will promote this goal? In this context, why does he argue against censoring even false or offensive speech?
3. Kant names his moral principle the "categorical imperative." What does he mean by this expression? What does it mean to say morality is "categorical?" What does it mean to say it is "imperative?" What are the first two formulations of this imperative (i.e., that based on form and that based on subject matter), and what do they tell us about the nature of morality on Kant's view? Given Kant's analysis of morality as a categorical imperative, why can't morality be based in happiness as it is for Mill?
4. You promised to help a friend move. She is really counting on your assistance. Another friend, though, invites you on a week long trip to the Bahamas for the same time as the move. What should you do? First, address this dilemma from a Kantian perspective. What would Kant ask you to consider in trying to decide what to do? Then go on to present the situation from the standpoint of Mill's utilitarianism. What is relevant from Mill's perspective? Is there any difference in the action these theories would advise you to take? Why or why not?