consequentialism
/ˌkɒnsɪˈkwenʃəlɪzəm/
ethical theory judging actions by their outcomes
consequentialism in a sentence
“Consequentialism asks whether an action produces more good than harm.”
Origin of consequentialism
Latin consequi 'to follow closely' + -ism
Related Words
virtue ethics
ethical theory focused on character rather than rules or outcomes
categorical imperative
Kant's principle that one should act only according to universalizable maxims
moral relativism
the view that moral judgments are not universally valid
normative
relating to standards of right and wrong conduct
metaethics
the study of the nature and foundations of moral thought
hedonism
the view that pleasure is the highest good