Consequentialism (/kənˌsɛkwɛnʃəˈlɪzəm/) is a moral theory which asserts that the rightness or wrongness of an action can be determined by its consequences. The word "consequentialism" is spelled with a "q" after the "kw" sound because it is derived from the Latin word "consequi" meaning "to follow after" or "to achieve". This "q" is pronounced as "kw" in IPA phonetic transcription, as seen in the two "kw" symbols in the word's transcription.
Consequentialism is an ethical theory that evaluates the morality of an action based on its outcomes or consequences. It is the view that the moral value of an action is determined by the overall net consequences it produces, rather than the intrinsic nature of the action or the intent behind it.
In consequentialism, the outcomes of an action are considered paramount in assessing its moral worth. The ethical rightness or wrongness of an action is judged by the positive or negative consequences it brings about. The intention, motivation, or inherent qualities of the action itself are secondary to the consequences it produces.
This ethical framework emphasizes maximizing overall well-being or happiness, often referred to as the principle of utility. Consequentialists believe that the morally right action is the one that maximizes the overall utility or the greatest good for the greatest number of people. It seeks to achieve the best possible consequences or outcomes in terms of favorable results and reduced harm.
Consequentialism contrasts with other ethical theories, such as deontological ethics that focus on following moral duties or rules, and virtue ethics that prioritize the character or virtues of the individual. While consequentialism places great importance on the consequences of actions, it does not necessarily advocate for a singular approach or set of actions as universally moral, but rather focuses on the specific context and the consequences at hand.
Overall, consequentialism provides a moral framework that prioritizes the outcomes or consequences of an action as the primary determinant of its rightness or wrongness.
The word "consequentialism" is derived from the noun "consequence", which originates from the Latin word "consequentia". "Consequentia" is a combination of the prefix "con-" (meaning "together" or "with") and the verb "sequi" (meaning "to follow"). So, "consequence" refers to something that follows or results from a particular action or event. The "-ism" suffix added to the noun "consequence" signifies the creation of a philosophical or ideological system or theory. Therefore, "consequentialism" refers to the ethical theory that holds the consequences of an action as the most significant factor in determining its morality.