In business ethics, what does utilitarianism suggest?

Utilitarianism is a consequentialist ethical theory that posits that the most ethical choice is the one that results in the greatest overall good or happiness for the most people. When making decisions, utilitarianism requires an assessment of the outcomes, with the goal of maximizing overall happiness or utility. This principle is rooted in the idea that actions are judged based on their consequences, and ethical actions lead to positive results for the community or society at large.

Thus, the notion of maximizing overall happiness aligns perfectly with the core tenet of utilitarianism. It emphasizes that the ethical implications of an action should be weighed in terms of the benefit it provides to the majority, making it a guiding principle in various business and moral decisions. This focus on collective well-being is what makes utilitarianism a foundational concept in business ethics.