Welfare, Happiness, and EthicsMoral philosophers agree that welfare matters. But they disagree about what it is, or how much it matters. Wayne Sumner presents an original theory of welfare, investigating its nature and discussing its importance. He considers and rejects all notable theories of welfare, both objective and subjective, including hedonism and theories founded on desire or preference. His own theory connects welfare closely with happiness or life satisfaction. Reacting against the value pluralism that currently dominates moral philosophy, he advances welfare as the only basic ethical value. He concludes by discussing the implications of this thesis for ethical and political theory. Written in clear, non-technical language, and including a definitive survey of other work in this area, Sumner's book is essential reading for moral philosophers, political theorists, and welfare economists. |
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agent-neutral aims Amartya Sen analysis Aristotle assessment attitude authentic autonomy Bentham capable choice classical concept of welfare concerns consists count depend desire theory determined dimension distinction economic endorsement ethical theory ethical value eudaimonia evaluative experience experience machine favour feeling foundational function go better Griffin happiness theory hedonism hedonistic human Ibid individual interest intrinsic J. S. Mill Joseph Raz kind least liberal Martha Nussbaum matter mental merely modes of value monistic nature of welfare Nicomachean Ethics normative notion objective objectivist particular perfectionism perfectionist value philosophical plausible pleasure and pain possible preference private ownership theory problem prudential value question reason requirement revealed preference role satisfaction satisfied seems Sen's sensation sense Sidgwick social sources standard subject-relativity subjective theory theory of justice theory of welfare thing tion University Press utilitarians virtue welfare subjects welfarist well-being worse