Utilitarianism, a consequentialist approach of ethics created by philosophers Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, argues that the optimal course of action is the one that maximizes overall well-being or satisfaction. At the heart of this ethical theory is the "Greatest Happiness Principle," which maintains that deeds are ethically correct if they promote well-being and unjustified if they cause the opposite. The utilitarian approach judges the moral worth of an deed based on its result, making it a practical strategy to ethical decisions.
This philosophy challenges classic moral systems that emphasize responsibilities or principles, instead supporting a adaptable approach that weighs the results of actions. Advocates of utilitarianism maintain that by prioritizing the highest well-being for the majority, the community can attain a greater overall happiness. This principle has been implemented in numerous areas, including economics, political science, and public policy, influencing actions that strive to better public well-being and reduce hardship.
Utilitarianism also deals with the business philosophy challenges of measuring and weighing happiness. Opponents contend that it can be problematic to measure pleasure and that this method may overlook the individual freedoms and dignity of people. However, advocates argue that the utilitarian approach offers a objective and unbiased method for assessing ethical dilemmas, fostering a more compassionate and realistic approach to moral decision-making. By focusing on the consequences of actions and aiming to maximize overall well-being, utilitarianism presents a compelling framework for achieving a fair and equitable community.