consequentialism
kon-suh-KWEN-shuh-liz-um
/kɒn.sɪˈkwɛn.ʃə.lɪz.əm/
The ethical theory that the morality of an action is judged solely by its consequences.
Evaluates moral worth entirely by end outcomes rather than intentions, duties, or intrinsic rules.
The story behind the word. Coined by philosopher G. E. M. Anscombe in her landmark 1958 essay 'Modern Moral Philosophy', consequentialism comes from Latin 'consequi', meaning 'to follow after'. Anscombe created the term to describe theories that judge actions solely by what follows from them.
Word relationships
- outcome-based ethics: Outcome-based ethics is a descriptive umbrella phrase, whereas consequentialism is the formal philosophical designation.
- deontology: Deontology evaluates actions based on adherence to moral duties regardless of consequences.
Commonly confused with
- utilitarianism: Consequentialism is the broader category claiming outcomes determine morality; utilitarianism is a specific branch that defines the best outcome as maximizing net happiness or utility.
Word family
- consequentialist (noun): A person who adheres to consequentialism
- consequentialist (adjective): Relating to consequentialism
Collocations
- act consequentialism
- rule consequentialism
- embrace consequentialism
- moral consequentialism
Example sentences
- "Under consequentialism, an act is morally right if and only if it leads to the best overall outcome among available choices." Ethical Theory
Memory hook
Think of CONSEQUENCES: consequentialism says consequences are the ONLY thing that determines whether an action is right or wrong. Consequences equal morality.
When not to use
Do not use to describe general cause-and-effect relationships in physics or everyday sequencing; it refers strictly to moral philosophy.
Fun facts
- G.E.M. Anscombe originally introduced the term as a critique of modern ethics, but outcome-oriented thinkers quickly embraced it as a proud self-description.
Related words
Explore more words
consequence, utilitarian, consequential, outcome, accountability, principled
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