The Pursuit of Happiness: Philosophical and Psychological Foundations of Utility

Utilitarianism is a social reform movement that aims to maximize pleasure and minimize pain. The book "The Pursuit of Happiness" provides a rigorous account of the foundations of Utilitarianism and explores how utility can be measured and how the aggregate utility of a group can be understood. Louis Narens and Brian Skyrms argue that a meaningful form of Utilitarianism is possible through interpersonal comparison and the formation of conventions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 23 February 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Utilitarianism, a transformative social reform movement, emerged with the core objective of maximizing pleasure and minimizing pain. However, engaging in debates about Utilitarianism without a solid grasp of its fundamental principles can lead to confusion. In response, The Pursuit of Happiness provides a comprehensive exploration of the foundations of Utilitarianism, offering insightful perspectives on its potential future development.

To fully comprehend Utilitarianism, it is essential to understand the concept of utility. How can utility be measured, and how can the overall utility of a group be comprehended? Louis Narens, a cognitive scientist, and Brian Skyrms, a philosopher, delve into these questions by employing both formal and historical methods. They examine utility theories from Jeremy Bentham, the founder of the Utilitarian movement, to the present day, encompassing psychophysics, positivism, measurement theory, meaningfulness, neuropsychology, representation theorems, and the dynamics of convention formation.

Based on their rigorous analysis, Narens and Skyrms argue that a meaningful form of Utilitarianism is achievable through interpersonal comparison and the establishment of conventions. They propose that by comparing individual preferences and engaging in cooperative actions, social groups can coordinate their efforts and achieve greater collective utility. This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting individual values while fostering a sense of community and shared goals.

In conclusion, The Pursuit of Happiness offers a valuable contribution to the understanding of Utilitarianism. By providing a comprehensive exploration of its foundations and potential future development, it encourages individuals to engage in ethical debates with a deeper comprehension of its principles. Through interpersonal comparison and the formation of conventions, Utilitarianism can become a powerful tool for promoting social reform and creating a more harmonious and equitable world.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 215 x 137 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198878728