Question

Sandel argues that both utilitarian and libertarian principles seem to suggest that a volunteer army is the best way to allocate military service.

a.true
b.false

Answer 1

Sandel suggests that utilitarianism might favor a volunteer army if it maximizes the overall happiness at minimal cost, while libertarianism might support it based on minimal government intervention and the safeguarding of individual rights. However, libertarians would not agree with a utilitarian rationale that focuses on net happiness for justifying a volunteer army.

Step-by-step explanation:

Sandel argues that utilitarian and libertarian principles may differ on the best way to allocate military service. Utilitarianism, with a focus on achieving the greatest good for the greatest number, could support a volunteer army if it maximizes overall happiness at minimal cost. On the other hand, libertarians often stress minimal government intervention and might only sanction a government role in military and police forces to protect and safeguard individual rights. In that light, a volunteer army could fit within libertarian values, as it does not require individuals who do not wish to serve to do so. However, libertarians do not contend that maximizing net happiness results in a just society and therefore might not agree with a utilitarian rationale for a volunteer army.