La notion d’égalité des chances chez Jeremy Bentham

Abstract

This paper examines Jeremy Bentham’s (1748-1832) concept of equality of opportunity. Yet, the economic theory of justice developed by Bentham is not based on such concept. As he does not use the “equality of opportunity” concept in his work, we are not surprised that there are not any study in that field. Nevertheless, when we use this concept as a guide to read his work, we can cast new light on it. It allows to understand not only his proposals on economic and social reforms as to the size of the State, but also political reforms proposals on the organization of public institutions. This contribution tries to demonstrate that the concept of equality of opportunity concept can not be ignored if we wish to get to the bottom of Bentham's theory and of his project of ensuring the "greatest happiness to the greatest number" project.