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Utilitarianism is a normative ethical theory that advocates for actions that maximize overall happiness or well-being. It is based on the principle that the moral worth of an action is determined by its outcomes, specifically the total amount of happiness or pleasure it produces. This theory was first proposed by Jeremy Bentham in the late 18th century and later developed by John Stuart Mill.

Utilitarianism can be categorized into two main types: act utilitarianism and rule utilitarianism. Act utilitarianism, also known as consequentialism, holds that the moral worth of an action is determined solely by its outcomes. This means that an action is right if it produces the greatest amount of happiness overall, regardless of the intentions behind it. Rule utilitarianism, on the other hand, suggests that actions should be evaluated based on the rules or principles that govern them. The goal is to create a set of rules that, when followed, will maximize overall happiness.

One of the key criticisms of utilitarianism is that it can lead to morally questionable outcomes. For example, if a utilitarian were to decide between saving five people and saving six, they might choose to sacrifice one person to save the others, even if that person is a close friend or family member. This "trolley problem" illustrates the potential for utilitarianism to prioritize the greater good over individual rights and relationships.

Despite these criticisms, utilitarianism remains a significant influence in modern ethics. It has been applied in various fields, including economics, law, and public policy, to guide decision-making processes. Proponents of utilitarianism argue that it provides a clear and objective framework for evaluating moral actions, making it a valuable tool for addressing complex ethical dilemmas.