Bentham Project

Chair: Professor Jo Wolff 
Project Director: Professor Philip Schofield
Administrator: Philip Baker

The philosopher and jurist Jeremy Bentham (1748–1832) will always be associated with the doctrine of utilitarianism and the principle of 'the greatest happiness of the greatest number'. This, however, was only the starting point for a radical critique of society, which aimed to test the usefulness of existing institutions, practices and beliefs against an objective, evaluative standard. He was an outspoken advocate of law reform, and had much to say on subjects as diverse as prison reform, religion, poor relief, international law and animal welfare. The Bentham Project is working to produce the first scholarly edition of the collected works and correspondence of this widely respected figure.

Philip Baker: [email protected]