China Social Science Review

No.4, 2024

 

 

Duan Zhongqiao

 

Classical utilitarianism regards the maximization of happiness as its ultimate goal and does not consider equality of distribution a fundamental value. The utilitarian perspective on equality is generally understood as follows: equality in distribution holds only relative value and serves merely as a means for legislators to achieve the overarching goal of social happiness. The norm of equality is by no means a rule that is universally applied or seen as universally applicable; rather, it is subject to each individual’s view of society’s interests. If inequality proves to be the most effective path to achieve general happiness, utilitarianism would demand that this approach be taken. Therefore, the argument that equality of distribution is a fundamental value within classical utilitarianism does not hold up under scrutiny.