Utilitarianism
Utilitarianism is an ethical approach that seeks the greatest overall welfare across those affected. It considers the scale and distribution of benefits and harms, not merely the number of people supporting a proposal. Measuring welfare and protecting individuals from severe harm are important difficulties in applying it.
Worked example
A firm compares two factory designs. The cheaper design saves money but exposes nearby residents to substantial harm; a utilitarian assessment includes residents’ welfare as well as owners’ gains.
Common mistake
Calling a decision ethical simply because it benefits a majority, or treating financial return to shareholders as a complete measure of everyone’s welfare.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | BT | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |
| ACCA | SBL | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |
| FIA | FBT | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |