"The said truth is that it is the greatest happiness of the greatest number that is the measure of right and wrong"
- Jeremy Bentham
About this Quote
This quote by Jeremy Bentham suggests that the step of what is right and wrong ought to be based upon the greatest joy of the greatest number of individuals. This suggests that when making decisions, the outcome ought to be beneficial to most of individuals, rather than just a choose few. This practical technique to morality is based on the idea that the best good must be accomplished for the greatest number of individuals. Bentham's quote recommends that the right and incorrect of an action must be judged based on the quantity of happiness it brings to the majority of people. This practical approach to morality is still relevant today, as it encourages people to think of the consequences of their actions and how it will impact most of individuals.
"The man who makes everything that leads to happiness depends upon himself, and not upon other men, has adopted the very best plan for living happily. This is the man of moderation, the man of manly character and of wisdom"
