Question

For utilitarians, which consequences must be considered when determining the rightness of an action?

a. Only individual consequences
b. Only societal consequences
c. Both individual and societal consequences
d. Neither individual nor societal consequences

Answer 1

For utilitarians, the rightness of an action is determined by considering both individual and societal consequences, aiming to maximize overall happiness for the greatest number.

Step-by-step explanation:

For utilitarians, the consequences that must be considered when determining the rightness of an action are c. Both individual and societal consequences. Utilitarianism is a consequentialist approach that judges the morality of an action by the resulting outcomes it produces.

The philosophy claims that an action is right if it leads to the greatest overall good or happiness for the greatest number.

This ethical framework implores us to assess the potential outcomes of our actions on everyone who might be impacted, rather than focusing solely on individual or societal considerations in isolation.

When making decisions, utilitarians believe we should strive to maximize overall happiness and well-being, without giving undue preference to any one group's or individual's interests over another's.