Paper Summary:

This paper examines how Mill's theory of utilitarianism and his greatest happiness principle can be linked to the legendary character of Robin Hood. Even though the character of Robin is a notorious outlaw, the altruism of his actions outweighs the unethical acts and decisions he makes. The paper looks at how Robin Hood epitomizes Mill's theory as he seems to care about the happiness for the greatest amount of people and how there is also the possibility that he simply cared for the oppressed and hated the rich and powerful.

From the Paper:

Although no one knows for sure whether the legend of Robin Hood was based on a real historical person, there is no doubt that his actions epitomized the Greatest Happiness Principle that John Stuart Mill writes of. Historians are still searching to find out if there ever was a real life outlaw who stole from the rich to give to the poor. Some seven hundred years later his persona still stands strong. He has been the subject of books, movies, and television shows. This is because the idea of a person who fights against the almighty rich to help those who are in need is something that all humans cherish. He is a hero to those he helps. He asks for nothing for himself, yet gives to those who need. A man who commits the unethical acts of stealing, violence, and at times even murder (in self defense), is a subscriber to the Greatest Happiness Principle. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• Cahn, Steven M, and Peter Markie. Ethics: History, Theory, and Contemporary Issues. New York: Oxford University Press Inc., 2006.
• Child, Francis James. "Robin Hood and the Bishop of Hereford." Robin Hood Tales. 13 May 2004. 25 Mar. 2008 <http://www.boldoutlaw.com/rhbal/bal144.html>.
• - - -. "Robin Hood and the Bishop of Hereford." Robin Hood Tales. 13 May 2004. 25 Mar. 2008 <http://www.boldoutlaw.com/rhbal/bal144.html>.
• Cox, Judy. "Robin Hood Rides Again." Socialist Workers Online. 7 Oct. 2006. 25 Mar. 2008 <http://www.socialistworker.co.uk/art.php?id=9839>.
• "Robin Hood." Microsoft Encarta Online Encyclopedia. 2007. 24 Mar. 2008 <http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761559549/Robin_Hood.html>.

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