The Principles of Utilitarianism

Understanding Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that promotes actions that maximize happiness and well-being for the majority. Key thinkers like Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill have heavily influenced this philosophical school. It emphasizes the outcome or the consequence of actions.

Core Principles

• Consequentialism: The rightness of an action is determined by its outcome.
• Hedonism: The pursuit of pleasure and intrinsic goods is the primary or most important goal of human life.
• Maximization: The goal is to bring about the greatest amount of good for the greatest number.
• Universalism: Moral judgments apply to everyone without consideration of personal relationships.

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