Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism is a moral philosophy that advocates for actions that maximize overall happiness or well-being for the greatest number of people. Originating with thinkers like Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, utilitarianism assesses the moral worth of an action based on its outcomes, emphasizing the balance between pleasure and pain. In sociology, utilitarianism is used to analyze how social policies and decisions impact collective welfare. It often underpins debates on public policy, where decisions are justified by the potential to increase overall social good. While utilitarianism promotes efficiency and equitable outcomes, critics argue that it can overlook individual rights and justice by focusing solely on majority benefits. Utilitarian principles help sociologists understand decision-making processes, social welfare policies, and the ethical implications of pursuing “the greatest good for the greatest number.”