consequentialism

American  

[kon-si-kwen-shuh-liz-uhm] / ˌkɒn sɪˈkwɛn ʃəˌlɪz əm /

noun

1. the theory that human actions derive their moral worth solely from their outcomes or consequences.

2. the theory that ethical decisions should be made on the basis of the expected outcome or consequences of the action.

---

consequentialism British  

/ ˌkɒnsɪˈkwɛnʃəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. ethics the doctrine that an action is right or wrong according as its consequences are good or bad

---

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• consequentialist
  noun

Example Sentences

Consequentialism looks at an action’s outcome or consequences to determine whether it is morally right.

From Textbooks • Jun. 15, 2022

Consequentialism is another name for utilitarianism, the goal of which is to promote "the greatest good of the greatest number."

From Salon • Aug. 23, 2011