Utilitarianism

Definition

Utilitarianism is a moral and political philosophy that suggests the best action or policy is the one that maximizes happiness or pleasure for the greatest number of people. It evaluates the morality of an action based on its outcomes, emphasizing the collective well-being over individual interests.

Related terms

Consequentialism: A moral theory that suggests an action's morality is judged solely by its outcomes or consequences.

Altruism:

The principle or practice of concern for the welfare of others, often at one's own expense.

Hedonism: A theory that pleasure (in the sense of the satisfaction of desires) is the highest good and proper aim of human life