utilitarianism

noun

util·i·tar·i·an·ism (ˌ)yü-ˌti-lə-ˈter-ē-ə-ˌni-zəm

: a doctrine that the useful is the good and that the determining consideration of right conduct should be the usefulness of its consequences

specifically : a theory that the aim of action should be the largest possible balance of pleasure over pain or the greatest happiness of the greatest number

: utilitarian character, spirit, or quality

Examples of utilitarianism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

While Weimar classicism harked back to the elegance and nobility of ancient Greece, Bauhaus believed in functionalism, simplicity, mass production, and utilitarianism—the justifications for most of the horrors of modern architecture. —

Tim Bouverie, airmail.news, 7 Sep. 2024 Handler isn’t the only star embracing utilitarianism this year. —

Maggie Clancy, WWD, 2 Dec. 2024 The Utilitarian View: Save The Most Lives A popular perspective, utilitarianism, suggests maximizing total life saved. —

Vamsi Vemoori, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024 However, utilitarianism is often criticized for its impersonal approach. —

Vamsi Vemoori, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for utilitarianism

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of utilitarianism was in 1827

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Utilitarianism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/utilitarianism. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

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