Utilitarianism seeks to achieve what outcome?

Utilitarianism is a moral philosophy that evaluates actions based on their consequences, specifically aiming to promote overall happiness and well-being. The central tenet of utilitarianism is the idea of maximizing utility, which is typically understood as achieving the greatest good for the greatest number of people. This principle implies that an action is considered morally right if it results in the most favorable balance of benefits over harms for the majority.

The concept emphasizes collective welfare and seeks solutions that enhance the overall happiness and minimize suffering within a society. By focusing on the outcomes of actions rather than the actions themselves or the intentions behind them, utilitarianism provides a framework for assessing ethical dilemmas in a pragmatic manner.

In contrast, the other options approach ethics from different perspectives, such as prioritizing individual rights or balancing various interests. However, they do not encapsulate the fundamental objective of utilitarianism, which is to maximize benefits for the largest number of people. Therefore, the correct choice aligns perfectly with the core idea of utilitarianism, underlining the importance of considering broader societal impacts in ethical decision-making.