Write a short note on Utilitarianism.

Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that emphasizes the greatest overall happiness as the ultimate goal of morality. Founded by Jeremy Bentham and later refined by John Stuart Mill, utilitarianism posits that actions should be judged based on their ability to maximize pleasure and minimize pain for the greatest number of individuals. The principle of utility, or the greatest happiness principle, guides decision-making in utilitarian ethics.

Key tenets include the notion that the moral worth of an action is determined by its consequences and that pleasure and happiness are intrinsically valuable. Utilitarianism contrasts with deontological ethics, which focuses on adherence to moral rules, and virtue ethics, which emphasizes character traits. Critics argue that utilitarianism may overlook individual rights and minority interests, leading to ethical challenges in certain situations. Despite debates and criticisms, utilitarianism has significantly influenced moral philosophy and remains a prominent approach in ethical reasoning.