Question

‘Utilitarians believe that the right action is that which produces the most happiness.’ Which of the following claims is incompatible with the utilitarian view?

• A. The right thing to do is to make the consequences of our actions as good as possible.
• B. The right thing to do is to do our duty, whatever the consequences.
• C. The right thing to do is that which, if followed widely, produces the most happiness.
• D. The right thing to do is to act from motivations which produce the most happiness.

Hint:

Utilitarianism is consequence-based. Any principle that ignores consequences directly opposes it.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Recall Utilitarian Principle Utilitarianism = Morality judged by consequences (specifically, happiness).
So, consequences $\Rightarrow$ core criterion of right action. Step 2: Identify incompatible view Option (b) is deontological — it says "duty over consequences", which contradicts utilitarianism. Option Analysis:

(a) Matches utilitarian principle exactly.
(b) Contradicts utilitarianism. Says consequences don’t matter.
(c) Rule-utilitarianism: general adherence to rules that create happiness — acceptable.
(d) Motivation linked to happiness — also fits.

% Final Answer \[ \boxed{\text{The right thing to do is to do our duty, whatever the consequences.}} \]