Benthamite Philosophy

Benthamite philosophy, developed by Jeremy Bentham in the 18th century, centers on utilitarianism, which advocates for actions that maximize happiness and minimize suffering for the greatest number of people. Bentham proposed that the moral worth of an action is determined by its consequences, emphasizing the importance of practical outcomes. He introduced concepts such as the "hedonic calculus," a method for quantifying pleasure and pain to guide decision-making. This philosophy influenced ethical reasoning, law, and social reform, arguing that societal laws and policies should be evaluated based on their impact on overall well-being.