Which principle states that one should act in a way that promotes the greatest good for the greatest number?

The principle that states one should act in a way that promotes the greatest good for the greatest number is known as the Utilitarian Principle. This framework is rooted in utilitarianism, a consequentialist ethical theory primarily associated with philosophers like Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill.

According to the Utilitarian Principle, the morality of an action is determined by its outcomes; actions are considered right if they lead to the greatest overall happiness or benefit for the broader community. This principle emphasizes the importance of assessing the consequences of actions and striving for an outcome that maximizes utility, or well-being, encompassing not just the individual but the collective society.

Utilitarianism often involves weighing the benefits and harms associated with a decision, making it a practical approach in areas like public policy, economics, and healthcare, where the impacts of decisions affect large groups of people.

In contrast, the other options represent different ethical frameworks that do not focus primarily on collective outcomes. The Deontological Principle centers around rules and duties rather than consequences, the Ethics of Care emphasizes interpersonal relationships and the moral significance of caring, and the Rights-based Principle prioritizes individual rights over collective outcomes. Thus, the emphasis on promoting the greatest good for the greatest number distinctly identifies the Utilitarian Principle