Define Consequentialism.

Consequentialism is a moral theory that evaluates the rightness or wrongness of actions based on the consequences they produce. According to consequentialist ethics, the morality of an action is determined by the overall outcome or the result it brings about, rather than focusing on inherent qualities of the action itself or adhering to specific moral rules.

The key principle of consequentialism is the maximization of overall well-being or utility. Utilitarianism, a prominent form of consequentialism, posits that actions should be judged based on their ability to produce the greatest amount of happiness or pleasure and minimize suffering.

Consequentialist theories often involve weighing the positive and negative consequences of various courses of action to determine the morally right choice. Critics of consequentialism argue that it may lead to morally questionable actions if the overall outcome appears favorable, potentially sacrificing individual rights or moral principles for the sake of achieving a perceived greater good.

Despite its criticisms, consequentialism remains a significant and widely debated approach within moral philosophy, emphasizing the centrality of consequences in ethical decision-making.