utilitarianism Definition
- 1the ethical theory that the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness and minimizes overall pain or suffering
- 2the belief that a morally good action is one that helps the greatest number of people
Using utilitarianism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "utilitarianism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The government's policies are based on utilitarianism, aiming to maximize the well-being of the majority.
Example
Utilitarianism is often criticized for neglecting individual rights and freedoms.
Example
The decision to close down the factory was made based on utilitarianism, as it would benefit the environment and public health in the long run.
utilitarianism Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for utilitarianism
- pragmatism
- expediency
- consequentialism
Phrases with utilitarianism
the idea that the morality of an action should be judged by its individual consequences
Example
Act utilitarianism would suggest that stealing a loaf of bread to feed a starving child is morally right.
the idea that the morality of an action should be judged by whether it follows a general rule that, if followed consistently, would lead to the greatest overall happiness
Example
Rule utilitarianism would suggest that stealing is generally wrong because if everyone stole, it would lead to more harm than good.
the idea that the best action is the one that minimizes suffering rather than maximizing happiness
Example
Negative utilitarianism would suggest that it is more important to prevent suffering than to promote pleasure.
Origins of utilitarianism
from 'utility', meaning usefulness
Summary: utilitarianism in Brief
Utilitarianism [yoo-til-i-tair-ee-uh-niz-uhm] is an ethical theory that advocates for actions that maximize overall happiness and minimize overall pain or suffering. It is based on the belief that a morally good action is one that helps the greatest number of people. Utilitarianism can be divided into act utilitarianism, which judges the morality of an action by its individual consequences, and rule utilitarianism, which judges the morality of an action by whether it follows a general rule that leads to the greatest overall happiness.
