What's right? What's wrong? How do we decide? Philosophers have tried to answer these questions throughout history by studying ethics. In the nineteenth century the ethical theory of utilitarianism was developed by John Stuart Mill and Jeremy Bentham.
Utilitarian's seek the greatest happiness of the greatest number of people rather than simply the self, which hedonists are concerned with. Humanism is different from utilitarianism in that it states that all human beings have the right to give meaning and shape to their own lives. Humanists believe that all people have the right to happiness and should be allowed to pursue their dreams individually. In order to examine the differences between Utilitarianism and Humanism let's look at a major moral controversy: the death penalty. In effect in sixty countries around the world at present the death penalty often polarizes opinion when discussed.
Utilitarian's would argue in favor of the death penalty, as, by removing one dangerous individual from society, law abiding people are able to live safer and happier lives. In their view the death penalty benefits the majority through the punishment of the minority. Humanists generally oppose the death penalty. They argue that killing a person is a violation of their human rights. Humanists also point out that establishing guilt beyond doubt is extremely difficult and that innocent people are as a result executed wrongly.
As evidence for this they state that eighty seven people have been found not guilty after their deaths by the American government. As with most discussions about ethics both sides have points that people agree with, and of course they also have points that people can disagree with. The debate about the death penalty continues. Some countries have abolished it by law others have stopped using it without banning it, while others continue executing criminals. The discussion is likely to continue for many years to come.
One of the most endearing ethical ideas as far as I'm concerned is 'The Golden Rule'' which states 'Treat others only in ways that you're willing to be treated in the exact same situation. This ethical theory is present in all the major religions and philosophies, and for good reason. It is the essential basis for our modern concept of human rights throughout the world. The Golden Rule seems to cut through the debate about whether the utilitarian or humanist view is correct and lays the responsibility for behaving in an ethical way with the individual. We have the opportunity to practice this every day - let's take that opportunity!