What does John Stuart Mill's philosophy of "utilitarianism" assert?

John Stuart Mill's philosophy of utilitarianism is centered around the principle that the best actions are those that promote the greatest overall happiness for the greatest number of people. This ethical framework prioritizes the outcomes of actions, emphasizing the importance of considering the welfare of society as a whole when evaluating moral decisions. Mill argues that an action is deemed right if it leads to the increase of happiness or pleasure and the minimization of pain for the largest group affected by that action.

Utilitarianism is a consequentialist theory, meaning that the moral worth of an action is judged based on its results. This perspective encourages individuals and policymakers to consider the broader impacts of their choices on the collective good, promoting social welfare over individual interests.

In contrast, the other options presented do not align with Mill's utilitarian framework. While some philosophies might emphasize subjectivity in virtue or adherence to tradition, utilitarianism fundamentally seeks to assess actions based on their implications for collective happiness. Additionally, the notion that all actions are morally permissible if they merely result in individual happiness overlooks the necessity of considering the broader societal effects, which is a cornerstone of Mill's argument for maximizing happiness for the majority.