Utilitarianism (noun)

1. A moral theory that holds that the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or pleasure, and the least amount of pain.
2. The view that moral actions are those that provide the greatest benefit to the greatest number of people.

Origin:

From the latin word "uti" meaning "to use" and "utilitas" meaning "usefulness", and the suffix "-ism" meaning "a system of beliefs".

Examples:

1. Utilitarianism is based on the idea that actions should be taken based on their ability to create the greatest amount of overall happiness or pleasure.
2. Utilitarianism is a form of consequentialism, meaning that the morality of an action is determined by its outcome.
3. According to utilitarianism, it is morally acceptable to sacrifice the well-being of a few individuals for the benefit of the many.
4. Utilitarianism is often used to justify policies such as welfare programs and progressive taxation.
5. Critics of utilitarianism argue that it fails to take into account individual rights and can justify actions that are morally reprehensible.