Question

a. One argument for and one argument against egalitarian policies from a utilitarian framework where policies should be based on achieving the greatest happiness for the greatest number.

b. Give one argument for and one against egalitarian policies based on our natural rights framework where policy should be based on respecting intrinsic individual rights without regard to considerations of utility

Answer 1

a. Argument for

If the policies are based on a utilitarian framework it is possible to assess the value of an activity. Whether it increases the happiness or not.

Argument against

One of the main drawback is that the happiness cannot be measured. The thing which gives greatest utility to one person may not be the one which gives utility to others. This makes comparison also difficult.

b. Natural rights are those which cannot be deprived by the government or any other institutions.

Argument for

The policies based on natural rights can prevent the imposition of any rule or law or any government system that breaches the individual rights

Argument against

There is no policy in reality which protects everyone's interest.

Increased emphasis on natural rights may lead to selfishness and it will lead to the breakdown of the concept of a society or community.