BharatNotes Utilitarianism
A consequentialist ethical theory holding that the morally right action is the one that maximises overall well-being (utility) — "the greatest happiness for the greatest number."
Context & Background
Jeremy Bentham (1748–1832) — hedonic calculus; John Stuart Mill (1806–1873) — qualitative pleasures; Peter Singer — preference utilitarianism.
UPSC Exam Relevance
Utility vs rights tension in policy dilemmas; Bentham's felicific calculus; Mill's higher/lower pleasures distinction; critics: Robert Nozick (rights as side-constraints), John Rawls (original position).
