Jeremy Bentham's "An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation"

Jeremy Bentham's "An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation" presents the idea of utilitarianism, where the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or pleasure and minimizes pain. Bentham argues that laws and moral choices should be judged based on their consequences, aiming for the greatest good for the greatest number. He emphasizes a systematic, analytical approach to ethics, advocating for quantifying happiness and designing laws that promote societal well-being. Essentially, his work offers a practical framework for creating laws grounded in the pursuit of collective happiness.