Act utilitarianism from "summary" of Utilitarianism and On Liberty by John Stuart Mill
Act utilitarianism is a moral theory that evaluates the rightness or wrongness of an action based on the consequences of that particular action. According to this theory, the moral worth of an action is determined by its utility in maximizing overall happiness or pleasure and minimizing overall pain or suffering. In other words, an action is considered right if it produces the greatest amount of happiness for the greatest number of people affected by that action. This approach differs from other moral theories that focus on rules, duties, or intentions. Instead of adhering to strict rules or moral principles, act utilitarianism emphasizes the flexibility and adaptability of moral decision-making. This means that the morality of an action is not determined by its conformity to a set of pre-established rules, but rather by its ability to maximize utility in a particular situation. Act utilitarianism requires individuals to consider the specific circumstances of each situation and to weigh the potential consequences of their actions. This involves taking into account the preferences, needs, and interests of all parties involved and calculating the overall impact of the action on the well-being of those affected. By prioritizing the promotion of happiness and the prevention of suffering, act utilitarianism aims to guide individuals towards making choices that lead to the greatest overall benefit for society as a whole. Critics of act utilitarianism argue that this approach can lead to morally questionable decisions in certain scenarios where individual rights or principles are sacrificed for the greater good. They contend that act utilitarianism may justify actions that are considered unethical or unjust, as long as they result in the greatest net benefit. However, proponents of this theory maintain that by focusing on the consequences of actions and promoting the well-being of all individuals, act utilitarianism offers a practical and effective framework for making moral decisions in a complex and diverse world.
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