Utilitarianism is a consequentialist ethical theory that considers the overall happiness or well-being generated by an action as its main criterion for determining its morality. According to this philosophy, the morally right action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or utility for the greatest number of people.
An example that best fits the philosophical idea of utilitarianism is the decision by a government to build a new hospital in an underprivileged neighborhood. By doing so, the government aims to provide better healthcare facilities for a large number of people who were previously underserved or lacked accessibility to medical services. This decision is based on the utilitarian principle that the overall happiness and well-being of the community will be significantly improved by increasing their access to quality healthcare. It takes into account the potential positive consequences, such as reduced mortality rates, improved health outcomes, and increased life satisfaction for a substantial number of individuals.
In this example, utilitarianism prioritizes the welfare of the majority over the interests or happiness of a few individuals. It promotes the idea that by maximizing overall utility, society as a whole benefits the most, regardless of any individual sacrifices. The decision to build a new hospital is based on the belief that the increased happiness and well-being of the larger community outweigh the costs or potential negative consequences for a smaller number of people impacted by factors such as construction noise, traffic, or temporary relocation of existing facilities.
Therefore, this example best exemplifies the utilitarian philosophy by emphasizing the importance of maximizing overall happiness and well-being for the greatest number of individuals when making ethical decisions.
Investigate the concept of ultiarianism, which example best fits the philosophical Idea
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