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

Even philosophies of meaning (Marxism, nationalism, utilitarianism) took on a mechanistic bent. —Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025

Namely that, because his utilitarianism placed central importance on the minimization of suffering and the maximization of pleasure, and because non-human animals like the venerable Reverend can suffer, that animals deserve substantial ethical consideration. —Rafael Perez, Orange County Register, 15 Mar. 2025

Alarmingly, 78% of respondents demonstrate attitudes focused on utilitarianism rather than conservation, highlighting a concerning trend. —Melissa Cristina Marquez, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024

Smart navigation between conflicting interests can very quickly degenerate into cold utilitarianism. —Yair Lapid, Foreign Affairs, 15 Dec. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for utilitarianism

• antiquarianism
• congregationalism
• constitutionalism
• cosmopolitanism
• electromagnetism
• environmentalism
• epicureanism
• evangelicalism
• experimentalism
• hyperparathyroidism
• hypoparathyroidism
• individualism