The term 'happiness points' is associated with which ethical theory?

The concept of 'happiness points' is closely tied to utilitarianism, an ethical theory that evaluates the moral rightness of actions based on their consequences for overall happiness or utility. Utilitarianism posits that the best action is the one that maximizes happiness for the greatest number of people. This theory simplifies ethical decisions by quantifying pleasure and pain as 'happiness points,' allowing for a clear measure of which actions lead to the most favorable outcomes for the larger community.

For instance, when making moral choices, a utilitarian would assess the potential happiness generated by each choice and select the option that yields the highest total 'happiness points.' This approach focuses on the overall well-being and is often utilized in public policy and ethical discussions where the goal is to consider the effects of decisions on the collective happiness of society. Other theories like Kantian ethics, virtue ethics, and social justice approach ethical dilemmas from different angles, prioritizing duty, character, or fairness over mere quantification of happiness.