utylitaryzm

Utlyitaryzm is a family of normative ethical theories that evaluates the rightness of actions by their consequences, with the aim of maximizing overall utility or welfare. Utility is typically defined as well-being, happiness, or preference satisfaction, and the welfare of all affected individuals is usually given equal consideration.

Origins and figures: The framework emerged in the modern era, with Jeremy Bentham often cited as a foundational figure for a unified utilitarian approach, and John Stuart Mill later refining the theory by distinguishing higher and lower pleasures and by emphasizing general rules that tend to promote utility.

Key concepts and variants: A central idea is that the morality of an action rests in its outcomes. There are several branches, including act utilitarianism, which evaluates each action by its specific consequences, and rule utilitarianism, which assesses rules by the long-run utility of following them. Some philosophers discuss preference utilitarianism, defining utility in terms of the satisfaction of preferences rather than hedonic pleasure.

Applications and influence: Utlyitaryzm has influenced ethical analysis across philosophy, economics, public policy, and law, where decisions are often framed in terms of social welfare and cost–benefit considerations.

Criticisms and responses: Common criticisms include difficulties in measuring utility, potential conflicts with individual rights, and concerns about justice or fairness. Proponents respond by refining the theory—emphasizing rights-protecting rules, pluralistic notions of value, or context-sensitive assessments to address these challenges.