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Utilitarianism versus the Repugnant Conclusion

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  • Cordoba, Juan Carlos

Abstract

An influential body of literature has challenged the suitability of utilitarianism as a criterion for population ethics. Parfit's (1984) Repugnant Conclusion posits that utilitarianism favors the existence of large, impoverished societies. Dasgupta's (2005, 2019) calibrated models provide support for this conclusion. However, this paper demonstrates that these findings can be overturned by considering alternative, plausible assumptions. For instance, a wealthy society with a small population can be consistent with utilitarianism. The paper argues that utilitarianism offers a reliable benchmark for population ethics.

Suggested Citation

  • Cordoba, Juan Carlos, 2023. "Utilitarianism versus the Repugnant Conclusion," ISU General Staff Papers 202302241652330000, Iowa State University, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:isu:genstf:202302241652330000
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Blackorby,Charles & Bossert,Walter & Donaldson,David J., 2005. "Population Issues in Social Choice Theory, Welfare Economics, and Ethics," Cambridge Books, Cambridge University Press, number 9780521532587.
    2. Juan Carlos Córdoba & Marla Ripoll, 2019. "The Elasticity of Intergenerational Substitution, Parental Altruism, and Fertility Choice," The Review of Economic Studies, Review of Economic Studies Ltd, vol. 86(5), pages 1935-1972.
    3. David Gale, 1967. "On Optimal Development in a Multi-Sector Economy," The Review of Economic Studies, Review of Economic Studies Ltd, vol. 34(1), pages 1-18.
    4. Dixit, Avinash K & Stiglitz, Joseph E, 1977. "Monopolistic Competition and Optimum Product Diversity," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 67(3), pages 297-308, June.
    5. Blackorby, Charles & Donaldson, David, 1984. "Social criteria for evaluating population change," Journal of Public Economics, Elsevier, vol. 25(1-2), pages 13-33, November.
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