Which of the following concepts best captures the utilitarian notion that each person's welfare is equally important and, thus, that no one person's happiness should be regarded as more important than any other person's?
A. Fecundity
B. Psychological hedonism
C. Agent neutrality
D. Nobility of intent
I think its A, but not sure.
Check your book to see if C isn't a better answer.
To determine which concept best captures the utilitarian notion that each person's welfare is equally important, we can analyze the options:
A. Fecundity: Fecundity refers to the ability to produce offspring or to fertility. While this concept may be relevant in a broader ethical discussion, it does not directly address the notion that each person's welfare is equally important. So, option A is unlikely to be the correct answer.
B. Psychological hedonism: Psychological hedonism suggests that all individuals seek pleasure and avoid pain. Though this concept relates to the pursuit of happiness, it does not explicitly address the crucial utilitarian principle of each person's welfare being equally important. So, option B is also unlikely to be the correct answer.
C. Agent neutrality: Agent neutrality in utilitarianism means that the moral value of an action is determined by the overall happiness or welfare it produces, not by the intentions or identity of the person performing the action. This concept aligns closely with the utilitarian notion that each person's welfare is equally important, as it emphasizes the consequence-based evaluation of actions rather than focusing on individual considerations. Option C is a strong contender.
D. Nobility of intent: Nobility of intent generally refers to the moral or virtuous intentions behind an action. While noble intentions may be praiseworthy, this concept does not specifically address the idea that each person's welfare is equally important. Therefore, option D is unlikely to be the correct answer.
Based on this analysis, option C, "Agent neutrality," best captures the utilitarian notion that each person's welfare is equally important.