Philosophy A-Level
Hedonic Calculus
What Hedonic Calculus means in Philosophy A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Hedonic Calculus
Bentham's algorithm for measuring the quantity of pleasure or pain an action will produce across seven dimensions.
Topics that use Hedonic Calculus
- Moral philosophy (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Categorical Imperative
- Cognitivism vs. Non-cognitivism
- Ethical Naturalism vs. Non-naturalism
- Good Will
- Moral Realism vs. Anti-realism
- Moral Status and Personhood
- Normative Application
- Phronesis (Practical Wisdom)
Using Hedonic Calculus in the exam
Definition questions usually carry one or two marks, and examiners look for the precise wording. Write the definition from memory, check it against the version above, and then use the term in a longer answer on the same topic so it sticks.
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