Bentham was a utilitarian philosopher, meaning he believed in maximizing happiness and minimizing suffering for the greatest number of people. He was impressed by Napoleon's achievements in bringing about legal and social reforms in France, as well as his military successes.
However, it's important to note that:
* Bentham's approval was complex and nuanced. He was critical of Napoleon's authoritarianism and his wars, and ultimately considered him a flawed figure.
* Other English philosophers, such as Edmund Burke, were deeply opposed to Napoleon. Burke, a conservative thinker, saw Napoleon as a dangerous revolutionary who threatened the traditional order of Europe.
So, while Bentham admired aspects of Napoleon's work, it's inaccurate to say he "approved" of him completely or without reservation. His view was more nuanced and complex, recognizing both the positive and negative aspects of Napoleon's legacy.