The philosophy of utilitarianism, a consequentialist approach of ethics formulated by ethicists Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, posits that the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or pleasure. Central to this philosophy is the "Greatest Happiness Principle," which asserts that actions are morally right if they promote well-being and unjustified if they result in the reverse. The utilitarian approach judges the ethical value of an act based on its result, making it a applicable method to ethical decision-making.
This philosophy challenges classic moral structures that prioritize obligations or principles, instead advocating for a flexible strategy that weighs the outcomes of behaviors. Proponents of utilitarianism maintain that by prioritizing the greatest good for the greatest number, the public business philosophy can reach a higher state of welfare. This concept has been applied in various fields, including the economy, governance, and policy-making, shaping decisions that aim to better public well-being and lessen suffering.
The utilitarian approach also deals with the challenges of measuring and weighing well-being. Detractors argue that it can be problematic to calculate happiness and that this approach may disregard the dignity and worth of individuals. Nevertheless, supporters believe that the utilitarian approach offers a clear and impartial way for assessing ethical dilemmas, encouraging a more empathetic and pragmatic view to ethics. By focusing on the consequences of deeds and striving to enhance overall pleasure, utilitarianism presents a compelling framework for attaining a just and just community.