Ethics Case Studies: Applying the Consequentialism of Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill

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Additional Learning Material under: Foundations of Ethics

Ethical theories become more meaningful when they are applied to real-life situations. Consequentialism, particularly the utilitarian approaches of Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, encourages people to evaluate actions according to their outcomes. While Bentham emphasizes the quantity of happiness produced, Mill reminds us to consider the quality of happiness and the long-term development of persons and society.

The following classroom case studies are designed to help college students analyze ethical dilemmas, compare Bentham's and Mill's perspectives, and develop critical thinking skills through respectful discussion.

"Actions are right in proportion as they tend to promote happiness."
— John Stuart Mill, Utilitarianism

Learning Objectives

  • Apply Bentham's Principle of Utility to practical situations.
  • Distinguish Bentham's and Mill's approaches to ethical decision-making.
  • Evaluate competing interests using consequentialist reasoning.
  • Develop reasoned ethical judgments supported by evidence and reflection.

Case Study 1: Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom

The Situation

A university permits students to use generative artificial intelligence tools to assist with research and writing, provided they properly acknowledge their use. Some faculty members support this policy because it promotes digital literacy, while others worry that it may weaken students' independent thinking and writing skills.

Discussion Questions

  1. How would Jeremy Bentham evaluate this policy using the Principle of Utility?
  2. What benefits and harms should be included in Bentham's analysis?
  3. How might John Stuart Mill evaluate the long-term educational consequences?
  4. Does promoting technological efficiency also support intellectual development?
  5. Which approach offers a stronger ethical justification? Explain your answer.

Case Study 2: Community Flood-Control Project

The Situation

A local government plans to build a flood-control project that would protect thousands of families from seasonal flooding. However, several households would need to relocate, and some agricultural land would be affected. Compensation and relocation assistance have been proposed.

Discussion Questions

  1. Would Bentham support the project? Why or why not?
  2. How should overall benefits and individual burdens be weighed?
  3. How would Mill evaluate the project beyond immediate economic gains?
  4. What additional factors should decision-makers consider to promote long-term well-being?
  5. Can the common good be pursued while respecting individual dignity?

Case Study 3: University Scholarship Allocation

The Situation

A university has funding to award only ten scholarships. One proposal is to select students solely based on academic performance. Another proposal considers both academic achievement and financial need to increase educational opportunities for disadvantaged students.

Discussion Questions

  1. Which policy would Bentham likely support?
  2. Would Mill emphasize educational quality and long-term social development?
  3. Which decision appears to maximize overall well-being?
  4. Should equality of opportunity influence consequentialist reasoning?
  5. What recommendation would your group make?

Case Study 4: Plastic-Free Campus Initiative

The Situation

A college plans to prohibit single-use plastics on campus. Although the policy may reduce environmental waste, students and nearby vendors are concerned about increased costs and the availability of affordable alternatives.

Discussion Questions

  1. How would Bentham evaluate the immediate and long-term consequences of the policy?
  2. Would Mill consider environmental sustainability a higher social good?
  3. How should short-term inconvenience be balanced against long-term public benefits?
  4. What compromises might improve overall well-being?
  5. Would you support the proposal? Explain your reasoning.

Case Study 5: Employee Wellness or Salary Increase?

The Situation

A company has limited funds and must choose between providing a modest salary increase for all employees or investing in a comprehensive wellness program that includes mental health support, professional development, and preventive healthcare.

Discussion Questions

  1. Which option would Bentham likely consider to produce greater overall happiness?
  2. Would Mill place greater value on programs that improve long-term quality of life?
  3. How should immediate financial benefits be compared with long-term well-being?
  4. Can both proposals contribute to the common good in different ways?
  5. Which alternative would you recommend? Why?

Case Study 6: Protecting a Historic Heritage Site

The Situation

A city receives an investment proposal to build a commercial complex on land that includes a historic heritage site. The project promises employment and economic growth but may alter or diminish the site's cultural significance. Community leaders are considering alternative designs that could preserve key historical features while allowing responsible development.

Discussion Questions

  1. How would Bentham assess the project's overall benefits and costs?
  2. How might Mill evaluate the cultural and educational value of preserving the heritage site?
  3. Should economic gains outweigh the protection of cultural heritage?
  4. What solution best promotes both community welfare and long-term societal development?
  5. How can policymakers balance competing interests responsibly?

Comparative Reflection

Reflection Question Bentham Mill
Primary Ethical Focus Quantity of happiness Quality of happiness
Main Question Which action benefits the greatest number? Which action promotes meaningful and lasting human well-being?
Decision Emphasis Overall consequences Consequences and the quality of human flourishing
Classroom Reflection Which option increases overall welfare? Which option contributes to deeper human development?

Suggestions for Classroom Facilitation

  • Assign one case study to each small group.
  • Encourage students to analyze the case first from Bentham's perspective and then from Mill's perspective.
  • Ask groups to identify both short-term and long-term consequences.
  • Invite students to compare their conclusions respectfully and support their arguments with ethical reasoning.
  • Conclude with a whole-class discussion on how consequentialist reasoning can inform responsible citizenship and professional decision-making.

Conclusion

Consequentialism encourages careful reflection on how human actions affect individuals, communities, and society. Jeremy Bentham's emphasis on maximizing overall happiness and John Stuart Mill's concern for the quality of human well-being provide complementary perspectives for analyzing ethical dilemmas.

These case studies demonstrate that ethical decision-making often requires balancing competing interests, anticipating consequences, and considering both immediate outcomes and long-term human flourishing. Through respectful dialogue and critical thinking, students can better appreciate how philosophical theories continue to guide responsible choices in contemporary life.

Sources & Documents Referenced

  • Bentham, Jeremy. An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation.
  • Mill, John Stuart. Utilitarianism.
  • Rachels, James & Rachels, Stuart. The Elements of Moral Philosophy.
  • Pojman, Louis P. Ethics: Discovering Right and Wrong.
  • Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. Consequentialism and Utilitarianism.
  • Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy. Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill.

Gentle Educational Disclaimer

This educational material is intended for learning, classroom discussion, and critical reflection. The case studies are fictional and created solely for educational purposes. They do not provide legal, medical, psychological, financial, or other professional advice, nor do they represent actual persons, institutions, or events. Readers are encouraged to consult qualified professionals and authoritative sources when making decisions involving legal, health, safety, or other significant matters. The presentation of ethical theories is designed to promote respectful dialogue, informed analysis, and responsible decision-making.

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