Question

Define and differentiate Act from Rule Utilitarianism. Be sure to include in your answer the idea of short- versus long-term pleasure for these 2 versions of Utilitarianism.

Answer 1

Utilitarianism is a brain child of consequentialism wherein the most noted profound contributors are Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill.

If the act results into the greatest good for the greatest number of people, it reflects "Act Utilitarianism". Whereas the "Right rules" behind a "Right decision" display Rule utilitarianism.

The objective of act utilitarianism is maximisation of pleasure for the greatest number of people. Rule utilitarianism lays foundations for generalised rules towards the happiness in congruent circumstances.

Act utilitarianism reflects flexibility with reference to decisions. Rule utilitarianism reflects standards/ norms and frameworks.

Consequences may or may not be significant for act utilitarianism. For rule utilitarianism, consequences matter the most.

Rule utilitarianism is treated as more feasible and practical as it brings uniformity. Act utilitarianism may not be feasible and tends to be impractical at times.

Act and Rule utilitarianism, both can be either with pleasure (short term) or happiness (long term) depending upon the circumstances and the allied attributes.