Blog Post #3

In reading  Utilitarianism I found myself agreeing with much of John S Mill’s arguments, especially when he states that happiness is not the reason for existence. He asserts this claim on page 9 when he says, “But these supplementary explanations do not affect the theory of life on which this theory on morality is grounded-namely, that pleasure, and freedom from pain, as the only things desirable as ends…” (9). I agreed with his opinion because I think that there is much more to life then gaining happiness. I believe this because there are so many important life experiences that do not conduce happy feelings, such as getting a college degree or taking care of a dying relative. One must work hard and sometimes one cannot be rewarded with happiness, but it doesn’t make the experience any less important. Mills and I agree, even though it is not the sole reason for our existence, that happiness is very important. Sometimes, like the examples I cited above, we go into situations that wont have a happy pay off but they will make us more educated or more well-rounded, if this later leads to happiness then that is icing on the cake.  If ones only goal is to be happy then our world would not be successful or thriving. We occasionally must be unhappy to make a meaningful change or difference to the world around you.