Which principle is most closely associated with Jeremy Bentham's utilitarian approach to law?

Correct answer: D. The greatest happiness of the greatest number

  • A. The separation of law from social interests
  • B. The supremacy of inherited legal customs
  • C. The command of an absolute sovereign
  • D. The greatest happiness of the greatest number

Explanation

Bentham evaluates laws by their usefulness in promoting the greatest happiness of the greatest number. His approach treats law as an instrument for social welfare rather than as a product of tradition alone.

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Jurisprudence examines the nature, purpose and sources of law through the ideas of justice, rights, duties, sovereignty, liability and legal personality. It compares natural law, analytical positivism, historical, sociological and realist approaches, and considers how courts interpret legal rules, distinguish law from morality and resolve conflicts between competing principles.

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