J.S. Mill’s and Nozick’s Philosophy Questions

Question

1. Define or state J.S.Mill’s “Greatest Happiness Principle”. Is his definition of happiness like an adequate one? How would would his definition intertwine with Nozick’s experience machine?
2. What is the concept of the “impartial spectators?” Should we take into consideration the good as a whole of moral reasoning? I think we should if we are looking at it from a philosophical standpoint.
3. Can you also explain what Mills means by “it is better to be Socrates dissatisfied than a fool satisfied”. Very confused on this statement

Answer 1

John Stuart Mill's "Greatest Happiness Principle" posits that the morality of actions should be judged based on their ability to promote happiness or pleasure while minimizing pain or unhappiness. Mill defines happiness as the presence of pleasure and the absence of pain. While this definition provides a clear standard for evaluating moral actions, some critics argue that it overlooks other aspects of human well-being, such as autonomy, meaning, and personal development.

In the context of Nozick's experience machine, a hypothetical device that can provide any pleasurable experience, Mill might contend that true happiness involves more than just the pursuit of pleasure. He would likely emphasize the importance of authentic experiences, personal growth, and the pursuit of higher pleasures that contribute to overall well-being beyond mere pleasure-seeking. Therefore, Mill might reject the experience machine as a means of achieving genuine happiness.

Mill's concept of "impartial spectators" suggests that when making moral judgments, individuals should consider the interests and well-being of all affected parties. This principle aligns with utilitarianism, as it emphasizes maximizing happiness for the greatest number of people.

Regarding Mill's statement "it is better to be Socrates dissatisfied than a fool satisfied," he is highlighting the distinction between higher and lower pleasures. Socrates, despite experiencing dissatisfaction at times due to his pursuit of knowledge and intellectual growth, engages in higher pleasures that are more fulfilling and valuable in the long run. In contrast, a fool may experience momentary satisfaction from indulging in base pleasures but lacks the depth and richness of experience that comes from engaging in higher intellectual pursuits. Mill argues that the quality of pleasure matters more than mere quantity, and it is preferable to lead a life of intellectual fulfillment, even if it includes moments of dissatisfaction, than to be content with shallow pleasures.