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Which school of philosophical thought primarily advocates for the greatest good for the greatest amount of people?

1) Utilitarianism
2) Deontology
3) Kantian ethics
4) Virtue ethics

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Utilitarianism is the philosophical school that seeks the greatest good for the greatest number, a consequentialist view focused on outcomes espoused by Bentham and Mill.

Step-by-step explanation:

The school of philosophical thought that primarily advocates for the greatest good for the greatest amount of people is called Utilitarianism. This ethical framework is consequentialist in nature, meaning it judges the morality of an action based on its outcomes or consequences. Philosophers Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill are notably associated with this philosophy, advocating for actions that produce the maximum pleasure or happiness and minimize pain, emphasizing the importance of maximizing well-being for the largest number. Utilitarianism is often contrasted with Deontology, which focuses on duties and rules, and Virtue Ethics, which centers on moral character and dispositions.

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