An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation

This version of this book is NOT a facsimile reprint of the original, it has been re-written so it is easier to read than many other available versions.

This work, originally printed in 1780, and first published in 1789, contains Jeremy Bentham's most famous analysis of the principle of utility. He distinguishes between its role in explaining why agents act as they do, and in pointing out the way in which they ought to act.

The work also includes discussions of the limits of legislation and the nature of offenses and punishment.

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Bentham is the first and perhaps the greatest of the "philosophical radicals," and his fundamental principle is utilitarianism or "the greatest happiness of the greatest number," a phrase of which he is generally, though erroneously, regarded as the author. The effect of his writings on legislation and the administration of the law has been almost incalculable. He left his body to be dissected; and his skeleton, clothed in his usual attire, is preserved in University College, London.