In his discussion, John Stuart Mill, who is the advocate of utilitarian ethics, tries to demonstrate that lying is generally wrong. Overall, this argument is based on several claims. At first, one should consider the principle of utility, according to which the morality of an action is evaluated by its actions. It implies that actions are morally acceptable, provided that they promote the general welfare. In turn, they can be condemned from an ethical viewpoint if they produce negative consequences. This is one of the assumptions that underlie Mill’s logic.
Mill argues that truth-telling strengthens the trust between individuals. In turn, this feeling is critical for improving people’s cooperation with one another. Moreover, if every person acts in an honest way, the community will become more secure. These are the main benefits that can be identified. In contrast, deception undermines people’s trust in one another. As a rule, it impairs every form of cooperation. Thus, this behavior adversely affects the welfare of the community. This is why lying is generally wrong.
Nevertheless, Mill does not try to show that lying can never be acceptable from an ethical viewpoint. In some cases, a person has to lie or at least conceal the truth in order in order to protect other people from danger. Under such circumstances, this behavior can be quite beneficial, while honesty can lead to negative results.
So, Mill’s utilitarianism does not provide clear-cut instructions for making a decision because a person should consider a wide range of factors to predict the consequences of an action. Nevertheless, a person should usually be reluctant to deceive. This is one of the principles that should be taken into consideration.