Which of the following statements about utilitarianism is true?
a. None of the above statements about utilitarianism is true.
b. Utilitarianism is concerned with providing for the needs of the minorities.
c. Utilitarianism is primarily concerned with the legal aspects of business decisions.
d. Utilitarianism holds that an action that affects the majority adversely is morally wrong.
e. The concept of utilitarianism supports affirmative action programs.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: d. Utilitarianism holds that an action that affects the majority adversely is morally wrong.
Explanation:
Utilitarianism is a normative ethical theory that evaluates actions based on their consequences, specifically in terms of the overall happiness or utility they produce. The fundamental principle of utilitarianism is often summarized as “the greatest good for the greatest number.” This approach was largely developed by philosophers Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill.
The correct answer, option d, is accurate because utilitarianism evaluates the morality of an action by how it affects the majority. If an action causes harm or negative consequences for the majority of people, it is considered morally wrong under utilitarianism. Conversely, if an action promotes happiness, well-being, or utility for the majority, it is deemed morally right.
Let’s consider the other options:
- Option a (“None of the above statements about utilitarianism is true”) is incorrect because option d is a true and accurate reflection of utilitarian principles.
- Option b (“Utilitarianism is concerned with providing for the needs of the minorities”) is misleading. While utilitarianism may benefit minorities in specific cases, its core concern is with maximizing overall happiness, which may not always align with protecting minority interests.
- Option c (“Utilitarianism is primarily concerned with the legal aspects of business decisions”) is incorrect. Utilitarianism is an ethical theory, not a legal framework, although its reasoning may influence business ethics.
- Option e (“The concept of utilitarianism supports affirmative action programs”) is too broad. While utilitarianism may support affirmative action if it results in greater overall benefit, this support is not universal or intrinsic to utilitarian thinking.
In essence, utilitarianism is a consequence-based ethical theory. Its central tenet is that morally right actions are those that maximize overall happiness or well-being, especially for the majority. This makes option d the best and most accurate choice.