Is God a Utilitarian?

[Guest mormonmusic]

John Mills, the philosopher, put forward a principle for solving complex problems when there are competing interests that are in conflict. His principle is particularly useful when someone stands to lose no matter what decision is made. His principle is embodied in the phrase "the greatest good for the greatest number". I believe this philosophy is called utilitarianism.

Do you think Heavenly Father subscribes to this philosophy when he governs the heavens and earth, and administers the plan of salvation? Is God a utilitarian?

Edited April 8, 2010 by mormonmusic

[annamaureen]

This is bringing back memories of my horrible Philosophy 1010 class.

Sorry, carry on...

[Gwen]

though i don't claim to know all the ideas behind utilitarian beliefs based on what you have said here and looking at accounts in the scriptures like nephi and laban the conclusion would be yes. however i tend to be able to find pieces of truth in almost anything. lol

[rameumptom]

I would say that God is not a strict Utilitarian. Mills' view was community based. And, in part, God manages things on a community level. However, God is more into a balance between community and individual/family. The Mosaic Law was entirely utilitarian, as it was based on a communal salvation. The higher law and Melchizedek Priesthood brings salvation down to the individual and those closest to him/her, the family.

That said, when we truly begin to establish Zion and her stakes, you will see utilitarian/pragmatic ideas implemented that will sustain the community.

[john doe]

No, God is not a Unitarian. Everyone knows He's LDS.

[Moksha]

No, God is not a Unitarian. Everyone knows He's LDS.

But if God were a Utilitarian, would Jeremy Bentham be a true prophet of God?

[Guest mormonmusic]

I think there's a fair amount of evidence that God is a utilitarian, although I suspect there are situations where His superior vision and power would cause him to act in ways that are wise, and definitely NOT utilitarian.

Here are some utilitarian behaviors of God

1. Telling Nephi to slay Laban because it's better that one man perish than a whole nation perish in unbelief.

2. Sacrificing His Only Begotten for the good of the rest of His children.

[Finrock]

Good evening mormonmusic. I hope you are well. :)

John Mills, the philosopher, put forward a principle for solving complex problems when there are competing interests that are in conflict. His principle is particularly useful when someone stands to lose no matter what decision is made. His principle is embodied in the phrase "the greatest good for the greatest number". I believe this philosophy is called utilitarianism.

Do you think Heavenly Father subscribes to this philosophy when he governs the heavens and earth, and administers the plan of salvation? Is God a utilitarian?

I don't believe God to be utilitarian. Utilitarianism always seems to leave someone dissatisfied. Even more particularly, it may even leave some good people outside of the scope of the greatest good.

I think God acts to bring about the greatest good for all.

Regards,

Finrock