The Principles of Morals and Legislation

"The Principles of Morals and Legislation," written by Jeremy Bentham, outlines a framework for evaluating moral actions and laws based on their consequences. It emphasizes utilitarianism, the idea that the best actions or laws are those that promote the greatest happiness for the most people. Bentham proposes using a systematic approach to measure pleasure and pain resulting from actions, considering factors like intensity and duration. His work sought to reform legal systems by prioritizing societal well-being, urging that laws should be designed to maximize overall happiness rather than adhere to rigid moral codes or traditions.