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utilitarianism

[yoo-til-i-tair-ee-uh-niz-uhm]

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

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

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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.

How do native speakers use this expression?