UTILITARIANISM

Utilitarianism is a consequentialist ethical theory holding that the morally right action produces the greatest good for the greatest number. Classical utilitarianism (Bentham, Mill) judges actions by maximizing aggregate happiness.

Jeremy Bentham systematized (1789). John Stuart Mill refined (1861). Henry Sidgwick (1874). 20th century saw rule and preference utilitarianism.

Jeremy Bentham, John Stuart Mill, Henry Sidgwick, G.E. Moore, R.M. Hare, Peter Singer, Derek Parfit.

Greatest happiness principle. Consequentialism. Impartiality. Act versus rule utilitarianism. Felicific calculus. Higher versus lower pleasures.

Influenced ethics, economics, public policy. Shaped welfare economics. Contributed to animal rights. Informs effective altruism.