Jeremy Bentham

“The Eccentric Philosopher Who Preserved His Body for Eternity – You Won’t Believe His Unconventional Legacy!”

• Alias: None
• Gender: Male
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Philosopher, Jurist, Social Reformer
• Religion: None (Deist)
• Allies: James Mill, John Stuart Mill, Robert Owen, Thomas Malthus
• Enemies: Conservative thinkers, opponents of utilitarianism
• Abode/Base of Operations: London, England
• Nationality: British
• Languages: English, Latin, French
• Alignment: Lawful Neutral
• Affiliation(s):
  • Utilitarianism movement
  • University College London
  • Westminster Review
• Significant Others: None (unmarried, no children)

Jeremy Bentham, a brilliant and eccentric philosopher, dedicates his life to shaping the world through rationality and utilitarian principles. With his sharp intellect and unwavering determination, he challenges traditional beliefs and seeks to create a society guided by the pursuit of happiness and the greatest good for the greatest number. Bentham’s unwavering belief in the power of reason drives him to question societal norms, challenge established institutions, and propose radical reforms.

As a character, Bentham is known for his tireless advocacy of utilitarianism, a philosophy that prioritizes the overall happiness and well-being of society. He is deeply committed to analyzing policies and systems to ensure they maximize utility and minimize suffering. Bentham’s dedication to utilitarianism stems from his belief that objective reasoning and empirical evidence can guide moral and social decision-making, leading to a fairer and more just society.

Bentham’s relentless pursuit of his ideals shapes his actions and motives. He tirelessly writes treatises, essays, and letters, disseminating his ideas and challenging the status quo. He engages in public debates, using his wit and logical arguments to dismantle opposing viewpoints. Bentham actively seeks to influence policymakers, urging them to implement policies that prioritize the greater good.

Driven by a desire for social progress, Bentham desires to create a society where laws and institutions are rooted in rationality and utility. He aims to dismantle oppressive systems, champion individual freedoms, and promote equal opportunities for all. Bentham’s ultimate goal is to leave a lasting legacy of social reform and to inspire future generations to embrace the power of reason and evidence-based decision-making.

In his quest for a better world, Bentham’s unwavering dedication to his principles often leads him to confront powerful adversaries and face backlash from those who resist change. Yet, he remains resolute, believing that progress can only be achieved by challenging the status quo and pushing the boundaries of conventional thinking.

Overall, Jeremy Bentham is a charismatic and influential figure, driven by a profound belief in the transformative power of reason and utilitarian ethics. His unique perspective and unwavering commitment to social progress make him a captivating character who shapes the intellectual landscape of his time and leaves an enduring impact on future generations.

Jeremy Bentham

Medium humanoid (human), lawful neutral

Armor Class 13 (natural armor) Hit Points 85 (10d8 + 40) Speed 30 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
10 (+0)	14 (+2)	14 (+2)	18 (+4)	16 (+3)	12 (+1)

Skills History +8, Insight +7, Investigation +10, Persuasion +5 Saving Throws Intelligence +8, Wisdom +7 Senses Passive Perception 13 Languages English, Latin

Abilities

• Utilitarian Mind. Jeremy Bentham has advantage on Intelligence (Investigation) checks related to analyzing systems, laws, and social structures. He can add double his proficiency bonus to Investigation checks made to decipher codes, uncover hidden meanings, or detect traps.
• Benevolent Persuasion. As a bonus action, Jeremy Bentham can attempt to persuade a creature within 30 feet of him. The target must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be charmed for 1 minute. The target can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on a success.

Actions

• Staff of Reason. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) bludgeoning damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or have disadvantage on its next attack roll. On a critical hit, the target is stunned until the end of its next turn.
• Enlightened Insight. Jeremy Bentham makes a Wisdom (Insight) check contested by a creature’s Charisma (Deception) check. On a success, he gains advantage on attack rolls against that creature until the end of his next turn. Additionally, if he successfully identifies a creature’s intentions, he can use his reaction to impose disadvantage on an attack roll made against him by that creature.

Equipment

• Staff of Reason
• This finely crafted staff is adorned with intricate engravings representing knowledge, logic, and the scales of justice.
• It grants Jeremy Bentham the following benefits:
  • +1 bonus to attack and damage rolls made with the staff.
  • While wielding the staff, Jeremy Bentham gains advantage on Intelligence-based ability checks and saving throws.
  • Once per day, Jeremy Bentham can use an action to cast the Command spell (DC 15) using the staff, targeting a creature within 30 feet. The creature must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or be compelled to follow a logical course of action suggested by Jeremy Bentham for 1 minute.
  • The staff can be used as a spellcasting focus for Jeremy Bentham’s spellcasting abilities.
  • When Jeremy Bentham successfully hits a target with the staff, he can use his reaction to impose disadvantage on the target’s next attack roll against him, representing his ability to counter arguments and defend his positions.
  • The staff also functions as a +1 quarterstaff in combat.

Legendary Actions Jeremy Bentham can take 3 legendary actions, choosing from the options below. Only one legendary action option can be used at a time and only at the end of another creature’s turn. Jeremy Bentham regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.

• Utility Insight. Jeremy Bentham makes a Wisdom (Insight) check to gain insight into an enemy’s weaknesses, intentions, or the nature of an ongoing situation. He can share this information with his allies.
• Calculating Strike. Jeremy Bentham makes a melee attack with his Logic Strike, targeting a creature within his reach.
• Philosophical Reflection. Jeremy Bentham spends a legendary action to regain 10 hit points and gain advantage on his next saving throw. He takes a moment to contemplate his decisions and draw strength from his philosophical convictions.

Challenge Rating.6

Plot Hooks

• The Greatest Good: Jeremy Bentham, known for his utilitarian philosophy, approaches the players seeking their aid in a mission to uncover and expose a corrupt noble who is exploiting the common folk. Bentham firmly believes that by revealing the noble’s actions, they can bring about a more just and equitable society where the greatest happiness is achieved for the greatest number of people. As the players delve into the investigation, they must navigate treacherous political landscapes, gather evidence, and rally public support to enact meaningful change and ensure the noble faces the consequences of their wrongdoing.
• The Utilitarian Experiment: Bentham invites the players to participate in a challenging thought experiment that tests their moral reasoning and decision-making skills. The players are presented with complex ethical dilemmas where they must weigh the potential outcomes and determine the course of action that maximizes overall happiness. Bentham guides them through these scenarios, providing insightful commentary and thought-provoking discussions that challenge their own beliefs and force them to confront the practical application of utilitarian principles in real-world situations.
• The Radical Reformer: Bentham, a passionate advocate for legal and social reform, calls upon the players to join him in a bold campaign to overhaul the existing legal system. Together, they must gather support from influential figures, draft groundbreaking legislation, and navigate the intricate web of political intrigue. As they encounter opposition from vested interests and encounter various obstacles along the way, the players must employ their strategic thinking and persuasive abilities to rally public opinion, effect meaningful change, and dismantle unjust structures that have long plagued society.
• The Logical Debate: Bentham challenges the players to engage in a series of intellectual debates, testing their logical reasoning, critical thinking, and moral intuition. These debates span a range of topics, from the nature of morality and the limits of government power to the ethics of punishment and the role of individual rights. As the players engage in these thought-provoking discussions with Bentham and other scholars, they not only sharpen their own philosophical perspectives but also gain reputation and influence within intellectual circles, opening up new opportunities and shaping the future of philosophical discourse.
• The Hidden Manuscript: Bentham seeks the players’ assistance in locating a lost manuscript that contains his revolutionary ideas on legal theory. The manuscript, rumored to be hidden in an ancient library or secret chamber, holds valuable insights that could shape the course of legal philosophy. The players embark on a thrilling quest, deciphering cryptic clues, outsmarting rival scholars, and navigating perilous traps in their quest to recover this invaluable knowledge. Uncovering the hidden manuscript not only grants the players access to powerful ideas but also establishes them as protectors of Bentham’s intellectual legacy.
• The Prison Reform: Jeremy Bentham calls upon the players to aid him in a mission to reform a local prison notorious for its inhumane conditions. They must investigate allegations of abuse, engage in negotiations with prison officials and authorities, and propose innovative reforms that balance the goals of rehabilitation, deterrence, and justice. As the players work to improve the prison system, they encounter resistance from those who benefit from the status quo, forcing them to employ diplomacy, persuasive arguments, and strategic alliances to effect lasting change and create a system that prioritizes the welfare and rights of inmates.
• The Hedonic Calculus: Bentham introduces the players to his renowned hedonic calculus, a system for measuring pleasure and pain to determine the morality and utility of actions. The players find themselves faced with challenging puzzles and decisions where they must apply the principles of the hedonic calculus. They are tasked with considering the varying intensities, duration, certainty, propinquity, and extent of pleasure or pain associated with different choices. Through their application of this calculus, the players navigate moral conundrums, weigh the consequences of their actions, and strive to make choices that maximize overall happiness and minimize suffering.
• The Legacy of Bentham: The players stumble upon a hidden chamber or long-forgotten archive that houses Jeremy Bentham’s personal collection of writings, letters, and artifacts. Within this hidden cache, they uncover forgotten works, secret correspondence with influential figures, and clues to the enigmatic aspects of Bentham’s life and philosophy. Exploring the chamber and deciphering the mysteries within, the players unravel hidden truths, unearth powerful artifacts, and gain insights into Bentham’s motivations, desires, and the ultimate goals he sought to achieve. This discovery could have far-reaching consequences, as the players uncover secrets that could shape the future of philosophy, society, or even their own destinies.

Currently in the World

Jeremy Bentham was a man of average height, with a slim build and a clean-shaven face. His thinning gray hair was neatly combed back, and his deep-set blue eyes reflected a sharp intellect. Bentham often wore simple attire, favoring dark suits with a white cravat.

Currently, Jeremy Bentham is sitting in his study, surrounded by shelves overflowing with books and papers. The room is bathed in soft candlelight, illuminating the numerous writing implements and stacks of manuscripts on his desk. Bentham’s expression is focused and contemplative as he scribbles notes in his neat handwriting, engrossed in his philosophical musings.

His surroundings exude an atmosphere of intellectual curiosity and scholarly pursuit. The air is filled with the scent of ink and aged parchment, creating an ambiance conducive to deep thought and reflection. Bentham’s mood is one of intense concentration, driven by a fervent desire to develop his utilitarian philosophy and contribute to the betterment of society.