Utilitarianism and Integrity an Assessment of William’s Critique of Utilitarianism

One of the main arguments that have posed a serious challenge to utilitarianism is an objection by Bernard Williams, according to which this theory alienates individuals from their interests and projects in favor of the greater good. Consequentialism, he argues, is concerned with what state of affairs the world contains; and utilitarianism is grounded on negative responsibility, which is inherent in consequentialism; so, it alienates an individual from the projects and attitudes with which she is closely identified, thereby causing her to lose her integrity, which is of special moral importance. This essay, reviewing and analyzing Williams’ criticism of negative responsibility, shows that this responsibility is the implication not only of consequentialism but even of pursuing personal projects; and raises doubts about its relation to the attack on integrity in several respects. It also calls into question the basis upon which Williams claims that utilitarianism alienates us from our moral feelings. Then, mentioning some objections to Williams’ view and responding to them, it discusses the importance of integrity and its moral status. Finally, it examines whether it is necessary for a moral viewpoint to be consistent with our deep personal projects if integrity is to be protected.