Explain why Mill would think that it would be morally better to promote Shakespeare reading over Simpsons watching; be sure to explain – does it depend on the pleasurability or merit of the work? (2) assess Mill’s argument – do you agree? why or why not
In Chapter 2 of Justice, Sandel considers the relative merits of Shakespeare’s writings and episodes of the TV show The Simpsons (pp. 546).
He discusses two issues – enjoyability and merit – and considers how each is
related to moral judgment. (Note: this question is of interest to utilitarians, but it also might matter to other moral views. Anyone who accepts pleasure/enjoyment or artistic merit as morally valuable will care about this
discussion.)
Your assignment: (1) explain why Mill would think that it would be morally better to promote Shakespeare reading over Simpsons watching; be sure to explain – does it depend on the pleasurability or merit of the
work? (2) assess Mill’s argument – do you agree? why or why not?
Important: Start with Mill’s position! This is not just ‘free response’ – I want you to react to Mill.
Evaluation
The assignment must be typed, double spaced. It isn’t a very formal paper, however, so any accepted format (MLA, Chicago, APA, etc.) is OK. I just want to follow what you are trying to say, be able to track down any resources you use, etc. I expect about 23 paragraphs, 1+ page.
