Analysis of the Concepts of Assessments and Norms in the Views of European Thinkers: Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill

Abstract

This comprehensive analysis explores the multifaceted perspectives of European thinkers Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill on assessments and norms. Bentham's utilitarian framework, rooted in the principle of utility, emphasizes the calculation of consequences to maximize overall happiness. Assessments serve as tools for evaluating actions based on their utility, while norms guide behavior towards the greatest societal good. Mill expands upon Bentham's ideas by introducing qualitative dimensions of pleasure and emphasizing individual autonomy. Assessments, according to Mill, should consider not only the quantity but also the quality of happiness generated by actions. Their perspectives have implications across various domains, including social justice, environmental ethics, and technological ethics. However, criticisms regarding cultural relativism, intersectionality, and the ethics of care challenge the applicability of their theories in diverse contexts. By integrating insights from contemporary ethical theories and addressing these critiques, we can navigate the complexities of assessments and norms more effectively in contemporary society.