In the context of ethics, what does Utilitarianism emphasize?

Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that evaluates the morality of actions based on their outcomes or consequences. The fundamental principle of Utilitarianism is to promote the greatest overall good or happiness for the greatest number of people. This approach suggests that when making decisions, one should consider the potential results of those actions and choose the one that maximizes positive consequences while minimizing negative ones.

By focusing on the end results, Utilitarianism encourages individuals to assess the impacts of their actions on the well-being of others, rather than adhering strictly to rules, personal feelings, or notions of fairness in isolation. This pragmatic framework leads to a consequentialist perspective on morality, where the rightness or wrongness of an action is contingent upon its actual effects on human happiness and suffering. Understanding this allows practitioners in fields such as physical therapy to make ethical decisions that consider the welfare of their patients and the broader community.