Which term describes choosing the option that maximizes overall welfare or happiness?

• A. Utilitarian analysis
• B. Deontological ethics
• C. Virtue ethics
• D. Rights-based approach

Answer: (A)

Utilitarian analysis focuses on outcomes and maximizing overall welfare or happiness. It evaluates options by the net balance of good over bad they produce for everyone affected, choosing the action with the greatest total utility. This stands in contrast to deontological ethics, which bases rightness on rules or duties; virtue ethics, which emphasizes character and flourishing; and rights-based approaches, which center on protecting individual rights regardless of overall happiness. In practice, utilitarian reasoning helps weigh benefits and costs across people, though it can raise questions about how to measure happiness and about distributing benefits fairly.