Which theory holds that the best action is the one that maximizes happiness for the greatest number?

Which theory holds that the best action is the one that maximizes happiness for the greatest number?

• A. Utilitarianism
• B. Natural Law
• C. Virtue Ethics
• D. Categorical Imperative

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is evaluating actions by their outcomes in terms of overall happiness. Utilitarianism holds that the best action is the one that maximizes happiness for the greatest number, treating happiness or welfare as the measure of what is good. It’s a form of consequentialism, so what matters is the net balance of good and bad effects on everyone affected by the action. In practice, you consider the likely consequences, weigh gains and losses for all involved, and choose the course that yields the greatest total happiness. Natural Law rests on following an objective moral order inherent in nature rather than calculating happiness. Virtue Ethics centers on developing good character and flourishing rather than on the outcomes of specific actions. The Categorical Imperative—a Kantian idea—focuses on duties and universalizable maxims, requiring actions to be morally right regardless of the consequences. So, maximizing happiness for the greatest number is most closely aligned with utilitarianism.

The idea being tested is evaluating actions by their outcomes in terms of overall happiness. Utilitarianism holds that the best action is the one that maximizes happiness for the greatest number, treating happiness or welfare as the measure of what is good. It’s a form of consequentialism, so what matters is the net balance of good and bad effects on everyone affected by the action. In practice, you consider the likely consequences, weigh gains and losses for all involved, and choose the course that yields the greatest total happiness.

Natural Law rests on following an objective moral order inherent in nature rather than calculating happiness. Virtue Ethics centers on developing good character and flourishing rather than on the outcomes of specific actions. The Categorical Imperative—a Kantian idea—focuses on duties and universalizable maxims, requiring actions to be morally right regardless of the consequences. So, maximizing happiness for the greatest number is most closely aligned with utilitarianism.