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utilitarianism

yoo-til-ih-TAIR-ee-uh-niz-um

juːˌtɪlɪˈtɛəriənɪzəm

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Syllable breakdown

utilitarianism

Dictionary meaning

An ethical theory that the best action is the one that maximises overall happiness.

History and origin

Latin utilitas (usefulness).

Examples

  • Mill's utilitarianism judges actions by their consequences.

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