The “Greatest Happiness Principle” is a core concept of which ethical theory?

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Consider what the prompt asks: identify the ethical theory associated with the Greatest Happiness Principle.
Option a: a. Utilitarianism. This theory centers on maximizing overall happiness or welfare, often summarized by the Greatest Happiness Principle, which seeks the greatest good for the greatest number. The rationale and examples in utilitarian thought consistently hinge on consequences and communal welfare, making this option a strong match.
Option b: b. Virtue Ethics. This approach emphasizes character traits and the cultivation of virtuous dispositions rather than a calculus of happiness for the greatest number. It focuses on what kind of person one should be, not directly on maximizing overall happiness, so this option does not align with the principle in question.
Option c: c. Ethical Relativism. This view holds that moral standards are culturally dependent and not universal. It does not center on generating the greatest happiness as a universal aim, so it mismatches the principle described.
Option d: d. Deontology. Deontological theories prioritize duties, rules, and rights over consequences. They argue that certain actions are inherently right or wrong regardless of outcomes, which contrasts with a happiness-maximizing framework, making this option inconsistent with the Greatest Happiness Principle.
In summary, the Greatest Happiness Principle is most closely associated with Utilitarianism, since it explicitly foregrounds the optimization of happiness or welfare as the core metric for ethical evaluation.

The “Greatest Happiness Principle” is a core concept of which ethical theory?

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