Utilitarianism: For and Against

Utilitarianism is a moral philosophy that suggests the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or well-being. Supporters argue it promotes the greatest good for the greatest number, guiding decisions in ethics, politics, and economics. Critics contend that it can justify harmful actions to a minority if they benefit the majority, potentially disregarding individual rights. Additionally, measuring happiness can be subjective and complex. Overall, while utilitarianism aims for a fair outcome, it poses challenges in balancing communal benefits with personal justice.