utilitarianism

noun

util·​i·​tar·​i·​an·​ism (ˌ)yü-ˌti-lə-ˈter-ē-ə-ˌni-zəm 

1

: a doctrine that the useful is the good and that the determining consideration of right conduct should be the usefulness of its consequences

specifically : a theory that the aim of action should be the largest possible balance of pleasure over pain or the greatest happiness of the greatest number

2

: utilitarian character, spirit, or quality

Examples of utilitarianism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Helping the most The third philosophical tradition is utilitarianism, developed by John Stuart Mill in the 19th century. — Sankar Sen, The Conversation, 11 June 2026

But the problem with utilitarianism is that just as the subjective, first-person experiences of sensory perceptions cannot be compared among individuals, neither can pleasures and pains. — George G. Szpiro, Big Think, 9 Apr. 2026

But the reality is that those trucks were uncomfortable, bouncy, unreliable horror shows of utilitarianism. — New Atlas, 31 Mar. 2026

Hence, utilitarianism is unsatisfactory as a theory of justice, and another theory must be sought. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 20 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for utilitarianism

• communitarianism
• humanitarianism
• libertarianism
• unitarianism
• vegetarianism