Justice and Utility: The Dynamic Duo That Holds Society Together

Justice is more than legal fairness; it is a cornerstone of moral and social order. John Stuart Mill’s utilitarianism offers a compelling explanation: justice is a form of social utility essential for the happiness and security of all.

Historically, justice emerged from the need to regulate behavior through laws that confer rights and impose duties. Mill emphasizes that justice corresponds to perfect obligations enforceable by society, distinguishing it from imperfect duties like charity.

The sentiment of justice combines natural desires for retaliation with social feelings of sympathy and collective interest. This dual nature gives justice its unique moral intensity and binding force, making it indispensable for peaceful coexistence.

Justice’s close relationship with utility means that rules of justice serve vital social interests—security, peace, and cooperation—that are prerequisites for happiness. This insight integrates justice seamlessly into utilitarian ethics, showing that promoting justice is promoting the greatest good.

Understanding justice as a social utility enriches contemporary discussions about rights, law enforcement, and moral obligation, highlighting the practical importance of justice in creating a just and happy society.

References:

• An In-Depth Analysis of Mill's Utilitarianism, Studocu 1
• Utilitarianism Summary - SparkNotes 2
• Utilitarianism Study Guide - LitCharts 3
• Utilitarianism Summary and Study Guide - SuperSummary 4