Utilitarianism seeks to achieve what primary goal?

Utilitarianism is a moral philosophy that emphasizes the outcome of actions as the primary criterion for evaluating their ethical significance. Its main goal is to maximize overall happiness and minimize suffering, which is succinctly captured in the principle of "the greatest good for the greatest number." This principle suggests that the best action is the one that produces the most favorable balance of benefits over harms for the largest number of individuals.

The focus on collective welfare is central to utilitarian thought, as it assesses the morality of an action based on the consequences it produces for society as a whole. This utilitarian approach stands out in ethical discussions as it prioritizes overall utility, rather than individual rights or duties.