utilitarianism

u·til·i·tar·i·an·ism  (y-tl-târ--nzm)

n.

1. The belief that the value of a thing or an action is determined by its utility.

2. The ethical theory proposed by Jeremy Bentham and James Mill that all action should be directed toward achieving the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people.

3. The quality of being utilitarian: housing of bleak utilitarianism.

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utilitarianism

Noun

Ethics the doctrine that the right thing to do is that which brings about the greatest good for the greatest number

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utilitarianism

the ethical doctrine that virtue is based upon utility and that behavior should have as its goal the procurement of the greatest happiness for the greatest number of persons. — utilitarian, n., adj.

See also: Ethics

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the philosophical tenets set forth by John Stuart Mill based on the principle of “the greatest good for the greatest number” and holding that the criterion of virtue lies in its utility. — utilitarian, n., adj.

See also: Philosophy

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

utilitarianism - doctrine that the useful is the good; especially as elaborated by Jeremy Bentham and James Mill; the aim was said to be the greatest happiness for the greatest number doctrine, ism, philosophical system, philosophy, school of thought - a belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school