Which ethical theory asserts that the rightness of actions is determined by their consequences?

• A. Deontology
• B. Virtue ethics
• C. Moral relativism
• D. Consequentialism

Answer: (D)

An action’s rightness is judged by its outcomes. Consequentialism says that what makes an action right is the good (or bad) results it produces, so actions that lead to the best overall consequences are considered right. A familiar form, utilitarianism, aims for the greatest overall welfare or happiness.

This contrasts with other approaches that judge how good an action is by factors other than outcome. Deontology treats rightness as following relevant duties or rules, even if the results aren’t ideal. Virtue ethics focuses on the character traits of the person performing the action, asking whether the action reflects virtue rather than whether it produced the best consequences.