Arizona State University (ASU) PHI101 Introduction to Philosophy Practice Exam

Utilitarianism evaluates the morality of actions primarily based on the overall happiness or utility produced by those actions. This ethical theory, associated with philosophers such as Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, posits that the rightness or wrongness of an action is determined by its outcomes, specifically in relation to the happiness or pleasure it generates for the greatest number of people.

The focus on overall happiness means that actions that lead to more general well-being and decreased suffering are considered morally right. This consequentialist approach contrasts sharply with other ethical theories, which may emphasize intentions, adherence to moral principles, or legal codes rather than the results of actions.

Utilitarianism's foundational principle is the "greatest happiness principle," which suggests that actions are justified if they increase overall happiness, highlighting the pragmatism of this ethical perspective in assessing the consequences of actions. This makes it distinct from other moral frameworks that might prioritize motives or compliance with specific rules or laws.