3 questions regarding ETHICS and PHILOSOPHY mostly John Stuart Mill

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1. Mill argues that pleasures differ not only quantitatively, but also qualitatively. Explain the difference between the two and why Mill makes this assertion. What does pleasure have to do with morality? How does Mill say we determine which pleasures are higher quality pleasures? (Hint: discuss role of "competent judges"). Do you agree that seeking and promotion of higher qualitative pleasures solves the "pig philosophy" criticisms of earlier versions of hedonism?

2. Mill is an empiricist. What role does his empiricism play in his moral theories? What differences result from this approach as opposed to Kant's rationalist approach? Here you'll want to contrast consequentialism with deontology as two distinct approaches to theorizing about how humans should act all things considered. Concrete illustrations will help your answer.

3. Mill offers a "proof" for the claim that the principle of utility lies at the base or foundation of moral theory. Why does Mill claim that this principle does not admit of formal proof but rather he can only give us reasons that will incline our intellect toward believing it's true? Explain thoroughly Mill's "proof" for both parts of the principle of utility (the hedonism and universalism parts-- hint: analogy and discrimination). What do you think of his "proof"?