Final answer:
A morally right action is considered to produce the best overall consequences because it maximizes happiness or well-being for the greatest number of people, aligning with the principles of utilitarianism. The utilitarian approach not only considers immediate benefits but also evaluates long-term consequences for social harmony and trust in institutions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to why a morally right action is thought to produce the best overall consequences. In the context of normative ethics and particularly utilitarianism, a morally right action is one that produces the greatest amount of happiness or well-being for the greatest number of people. Utilitarian thinkers like Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill have contributed significantly to this philosophical approach, arguing that the ends—measured in terms of happiness or utility—justify the means. This framework is applied to various domains, including clinical trials, where it helps balance the pursuit of scientific knowledge with the interests and happiness of human subjects.
Within the utilitarian paradigm, the choice that maximizes overall happiness is deemed the most ethical one. This is often summarized as 'the greatest happiness for the greatest number.' However, in decision-making, this also entails a consideration of long-term consequences, such as social harmony and trust in institutions like the judicial system. The application of the greatest happiness principle seeks to avoid actions that, while increasing happiness for some, could undermine security, trust, and overall community well-being in the long run.