
The British Utilitarianism Movement
The British Utilitarianism Movement, primarily in the 19th century, centered on the philosophy that the best actions or policies are those that maximize overall happiness or well-being. Key figures like Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill argued that the moral worth of an action is determined by its contribution to the greatest good for the greatest number of people. This approach emphasizes outcomes and consequences, suggesting that actions should be evaluated based on their impact on societal welfare, leading to discussions on ethics, governance, and social reform. Utilitarianism has influenced various fields, including economics, politics, and ethics.