The Utilitarian Theory: The Theory Of Utility

The Theory of Utility teaches that we make our decisions in life based on the basic principle of maximizing happiness – which can be measured in pleasure and pain. Morality can also be defined as that which brings about the largest amount of happiness, and the least pain. Unlike other theories, however, Utility states the happiness of all is to be considered over the happiness of one. When faced with a choice, one must choose the option that will cause the greatest pleasure and the least pain. Applying this part of the Utilitarian argument to the supplied scenario, it would seem that Utility would say stealing the ice cream and breaking the law are the morally right course of action. However, Utility continues on in its teaching stating that

In the case of the overweight child, he is not only robbed, but he is also judged and discriminated against based on looks. Legality aside, not only is this child robbed of his property, he is also robbed of the character growth he would have received if he had been educated and taught to share. By being taught to share he is not only learning how to treat everyone as equals, but also that true pleasure is the lasting pleasure one receives in sharing happiness with others, and not the momentary pleasure of having all the happiness for oneself. This child is also being subjected to judgement based on looks. The ice cream thief looks at this child and assumes that he is overweight because he eats too much and therefore won’t miss another snack. There are multiple factors that can cause childhood obesity, and none of them are healthy. Can one always tell why someone is overweight just by looking at them? Overeating and lack of exercise are factors. There are also medical, socioeconomical, or psychological factors involved. This overweight child could be just as poor and malnourished as the three waifs. Poverty and obesity of this kind are known to have negative psychological effects, especially in children. If a child was singled out, judged based on looks and had their food stolen in school it would be called bullying. Depending on the mental state

Whether it was stolen or shared, the result is the same: the waifs receive the ice cream. However, through Utility we understand the deeper aspects. If the ice cream was shared, the generosity and kindness would have added to the pleasure of the ice cream itself. These waifs would learn the lasting pleasure that comes from sharing, compassion, and being treated as equals. And these pleasures can be maximized by sharing them. However, according to the example, the ice cream was stolen and given to them. What these three waifs have learned is that it is ok to steal whatever one wants. This was not stolen to stave off death. These envious waifs coveted the rare delicacy, someone comes along and steals it for them. They have learned to steal for pleasure. Not even for necessity, but purely for pleasure. And they have also learned to judge others based on looks. Steal from others because they appear to have, so they must be able to get