The Hedonic Calculus

The Hedonic Calculus is a philosophical theory that states that the only intrinsic good is pleasure, and the only intrinsic evil is pain. The theory was first proposed by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristippus of Cyrene, and it has been influential in Western thought ever since.

10 Questions Published

Questions

Question 1 Multiple Choice (Single Answer)

What is the central tenet of the Hedonic Calculus?

  1. The only intrinsic good is pleasure.
  2. The only intrinsic evil is pain.
  3. Both A and B.
  4. Neither A nor B.
Question 2 Multiple Choice (Single Answer)

Who first proposed the Hedonic Calculus?

  1. Aristippus of Cyrene
  2. Epicurus
  3. John Stuart Mill
  4. Jeremy Bentham
Question 3 Multiple Choice (Single Answer)

What is the goal of the Hedonic Calculus?

  1. To maximize pleasure and minimize pain.
  2. To achieve a state of perfect happiness.
  3. To live a life in accordance with nature.
  4. To fulfill one's moral obligations.
Question 4 Multiple Choice (Single Answer)

What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic goods?

  1. Intrinsic goods are good in themselves, while extrinsic goods are good only as a means to something else.
  2. Intrinsic goods are good for everyone, while extrinsic goods are good only for some people.
  3. Intrinsic goods are permanent, while extrinsic goods are temporary.
  4. Intrinsic goods are spiritual, while extrinsic goods are material.
Question 5 Multiple Choice (Single Answer)

What are some examples of intrinsic goods?

  1. Pleasure
  2. Happiness
  3. Knowledge
  4. Virtue
Question 6 Multiple Choice (Single Answer)

What are some examples of extrinsic goods?

  1. Money
  2. Power
  3. Fame
  4. Health
Question 7 Multiple Choice (Single Answer)

Is it possible to achieve a state of perfect happiness?

  1. Yes
  2. No
  3. It depends on the individual.
  4. It is impossible to say.
Question 8 Multiple Choice (Single Answer)

Is the Hedonic Calculus a selfish theory?

  1. Yes
  2. No
  3. It depends on the individual.
  4. It is impossible to say.
Question 9 Multiple Choice (Single Answer)

Has the Hedonic Calculus been criticized?

  1. Yes
  2. No
  3. It depends on the individual.
  4. It is impossible to say.
Question 10 Multiple Choice (Single Answer)

Is the Hedonic Calculus still influential today?

  1. Yes
  2. No
  3. It depends on the individual.
  4. It is impossible to say.