Which approach emphasizes utility and pleasure in moral decision-making?

Utilitarianism is the approach that emphasizes utility and pleasure in moral decision-making. It is a form of consequentialism but is specifically focused on maximizing happiness and reducing suffering. In utilitarian ethics, the rightness or wrongness of actions is determined by their outcomes, particularly their impact on overall well-being. The principle is that the best action is the one that produces the greatest good for the greatest number of people.

This focus on practical consequences and the pursuit of pleasure aligns closely with the core tenets of utilitarian philosophy, which advocates assessing actions based on their ability to foster happiness and minimize pain. This makes utilitarianism particularly relevant in discussions about ethics where the welfare of multiple individuals is considered, leading to decisions that aim to achieve the most favorable balance of benefits over harms.