James Gray is a very clear writer who has helpfully explained in very simple language what is meant by intrinsic goodness. Students can be confused on this issue, arguing for example that utilitarians believe in intrinsic goodness, but deontological absolutists like Kant do not. This is a misunderstanding. Both believe in itnrinisic goodness, the utilitarian arguing that pleasure or happiness are the only intrinisic goods, and Kant, that the categorical imperative is the only intrinsic good.  The utilitarians gain their idea from experience, and Kant gains his from using reason alone. PB

http://ethicalrealism.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/a-faq-on-intrinsic-value-free-book-james-gray-2012011.pdf