Jeremy Bentham (1748–1832) British Philosopher, Jurist, and Political Reformer

This book explores the life, philosophy, and enduring influence of Jeremy Bentham (1748-1832), the British philosopher, jurist, and political reformer who is best known as the founder of modern utilitarianism. Through an in-depth analysis of his ideas on law, governance, ethics, social reform, and human rights, the book traces Bentham's contributions to modern philosophy and examines the complex legacy of his utilitarian framework in the 21st century. The text delves into Bentham's vision of a society governed by rational laws and principles aimed at maximizing happiness and minimizing suffering for the greatest number, offering a critical examination of his utilitarian calculus, his advocacy for legal codification, and his influence on subsequent political and legal thinkers, including John Stuart Mill. It further explores Bentham's positions on gender equality, social justice, and the role of the state, as well as the practical implications of his ideas on penal reform, economics, and public policy. The book also engages with critiques of Bentham's philosophy, considering challenges to his ideas by figures such as Kant and Mill, and reflects on how Bentham's ideas have shaped modern ethical debates and reform movements, from the abolition of the death penalty to the expansion of human rights. Ultimately, the book asserts that Bentham's utilitarianism, despite its limitations, continues to offer valuable insights into the moral and political questions of our time, with its focus on social welfare, rational governance, and the pursuit of justice remaining deeply relevant in contemporary discussions of law, democracy, and global ethics.