Which ethical framework emphasizes the greatest good for the greatest number?

Which ethical framework emphasizes the greatest good for the greatest number?

• A. Utilitarianism
• B. Deontology
• C. Virtue Ethics
• D. Relativism

Answer: (A)

Greatest good for the greatest number is the hallmark of utilitarian ethics, a framework that judges actions by their consequences and seeks to maximize overall welfare or happiness. This approach asks whether the result produces more good than harm for the most people, rather than whether the action follows a rule or reflects virtuous character. Deontology, by contrast, centers on duties and universal rules regardless of outcome; virtue ethics focuses on moral character and the cultivation of virtues rather than calculating consequences; relativism holds that morality depends on cultural or individual norms. Because the prompt explicitly describes maximizing overall good for many people, utilitarianism best fits.

Greatest good for the greatest number is the hallmark of utilitarian ethics, a framework that judges actions by their consequences and seeks to maximize overall welfare or happiness. This approach asks whether the result produces more good than harm for the most people, rather than whether the action follows a rule or reflects virtuous character. Deontology, by contrast, centers on duties and universal rules regardless of outcome; virtue ethics focuses on moral character and the cultivation of virtues rather than calculating consequences; relativism holds that morality depends on cultural or individual norms. Because the prompt explicitly describes maximizing overall good for many people, utilitarianism best fits.