utilitarianism

noun

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

Definition of utilitarianism

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 There is just too little daylight now between secular utilitarianism and liberal Catholicism in its political and partisan form. — Ross Douthat New York Times, Star Tribune, 24 June 2021 Their products’ ubiquity transcends mere utilitarianism and pushes into the broader social consciousness. — Steven Aquino, Forbes, 19 May 2021 Bazerman’s guiding light is the philosophy of utilitarianism, which teaches the goal of creating the greatest good for the greatest number of people. — Hbs Working Knowledge, Forbes, 6 May 2021 If architecture, like art, reflects a civilization’s values, then the House of One represents the victory of functional utilitarianism over transcendence. — Joseph D’hippolito, WSJ, 8 Apr. 2021 This will push them closer to utilitarianism, and an equal concern for all. — Tyler Cowen, Star Tribune, 7 Mar. 2021 The constraints of the pandemic have given us few reasons to carry a handbag outside of pure utilitarianism. — Willow Lindley, Vogue, 14 Dec. 2020 While there are plenty of covetable Chelseas on the market, Bottega Veneta’s Daniel Lee has once again acted as Midas, and created a fleet of Chelsea boots that balance utilitarianism, sleekness, and modernity. — Rachel Besser, Vogue, 4 Nov. 2020 This was the opposite of utilitarianism, or the suggestion that what was good was that which would benefit the greatest number of people. — Kim Phillips-fein, The New Republic, 9 June 2020

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'utilitarianism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.