noun

utilitarianism

yoo-til-i-TAIR-ee-uh-niz-uhm

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Utilitarianism (noun) means the ethical theory that the right action is the one producing the greatest overall happiness or wellbeing for the greatest number of people, judged by its consequences rather than by rules or intentions. Example: “Under strict utilitarianism, a policy that harms a few is justified if it benefits far more.”

noun

The ethical theory that the right action is the one producing the greatest overall happiness or wellbeing for the greatest number of people, judged by its consequences rather than by rules or intentions.

"Under strict utilitarianism, a policy that harms a few is justified if it benefits far more."

"The lecture contrasted utilitarianism with Kant's duty-based ethics."

An emphasis on usefulness and practical results over beauty, tradition or other considerations.

"The grim utilitarianism of the new housing blocks made no allowance for beauty."

How to use utilitarianism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe idea that the right thing to do is whatever produces the most good for the most people.

When to use it

Formal and academic in the ethical sense; the second sense is often mildly disapproving.

Memory tip

Utilitarianism is one kind of consequentialism, not a synonym for it: all utilitarians are consequentialists, but not every consequentialist measures outcomes in happiness.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

consequentialism pragmatism → hedonism →

Common pairings

act utilitarianism rule utilitarianism classical utilitarianism utilitarianism and consequentialism

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “utilitarianism” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

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Can you complete this real example?

Under strict _____, a policy that harms a few is justified if it benefits far more.

Etymology

From utility, ultimately from Latin utilis 'useful', with the suffix -arianism forming the name of a doctrine.

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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consequentialism greatest happiness principle pragmatism functionalism

Antonyms

deontology virtue ethics

Related words

realism pragmatic idealism deontology functionalism pragmatism

Rhymes for utilitarianism

humanism veganism organism shamanism mechanism hooliganism microorganism vegetarianism republicanism authoritarianism

See all rhymes for utilitarianism →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between utilitarianism and deontology?

Utilitarianism judges an action by its consequences, asking how much overall wellbeing it produces. Deontology judges it by whether it follows a moral rule or duty, regardless of outcome. A deontologist would say lying is wrong even when it saves a life; a utilitarian would weigh the lives saved.

What is the difference between act and rule utilitarianism?

Act utilitarianism assesses each individual action by the happiness it produces. Rule utilitarianism asks which general rules would produce the most happiness if everyone followed them, then judges actions by those rules. Rule utilitarianism is often used to explain why promise-keeping matters even when breaking a promise would help in one case.

What are the main criticisms of utilitarianism?

That it can justify serious harm to a minority if the majority gains, that happiness is very difficult to measure and compare between people, and that it demands impartiality so extreme it leaves no room for special obligations to your own family and friends.

What is the meaning of utilitarianism?

"utilitarianism" (noun) means the ethical theory that the right action is the one producing the greatest overall happiness or wellbeing for the greatest number of people, judged by its consequences rather than by rules or intentions.

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