topic modern ★ seed

Utilitarianism

The moral theory that the right action maximizes overall happiness. Founded by Bentham's felicific calculus and refined by Mill's qualitative distinctions. The most influential consequentialist ethics.

#utilitarianism #consequentialism #happiness #greatest-good

Sub-topics

Jeremy Bentham concept

Jeremy Bentham (1748-1832). Founder of utilitarianism. 'The greatest happiness of the greatest number.' Felicific calculus to measure pleasure and pain. Legal reformer, animal rights advocate, his skeleton still displayed at UCL.

John Stuart Mill concept

John Stuart Mill (1806-1873). Refined utilitarianism with qualitative distinctions — 'better to be Socrates dissatisfied than a fool satisfied.' On Liberty defended individual freedom. Champion of women's rights.