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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What is the maxim of Utilitarian philosophy?
(a) Might makes right.
(b) The greatest good to the wealthiest.
(c) The greatest good to the deserving.
(d) The greatest good for the greatest number.

2. What does Rawls believe is the dominant theory of political philosophy throughout the 20th Century?
(a) Ontology.
(b) Socialism.
(c) Republicanism.
(d) Utilitarianism.

3. Who was the father of Utilitarianism?
(a) David Hume.
(b) Spinoza.
(c) Karl Marx.
(d) Jesus Christ.

4. What does the Individual gain out of the Social Contract?
(a) Power and glory.
(b) Money and wealth.
(c) Protection and security.
(d) Military might.

5. What is the greatest criticism levelled against Utilitarianism?
(a) It's not realistic.
(b) That majority views are ignored.
(c) It is not strong enough.
(d) That minority views are ignored.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is John Stuart Mill's Theory of Higher Pleasures?

2. What is the Veil of Ignorance in Rawls' argument?

3. What does Rawls want his theory of justice to be?

4. What does Rawls accept about his own theory?

5. Where did the early Intuitionists believe they got their appreciation of morals, rights and wrongs or fairness?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the definition of the 'good' society in Rawls’ view?

2. Why did Adam Smith believe that Utilitarian economics were the best possible system?

3. What was the dominant political philosophy theory throughout the 20th Century?

4. What is the popular definition of a Utilitarian object?

5. What choice is the hypothetical person in the Original Position offered?

6. What is one of the prime problems for the Intuitionist?

7. When was the theory that Rawls wants to re-invigorate in his argument prevalent?

8. What does Rawls hope to do with this Theory of Justice?

9. According to the chapter “The Original Position,” what do we have to assume about the individual's rational capabilities?

10. In Rawls’ estimation, why is fairness the best virtue for society?

(see the answer keys)

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