Glossary of Philosophy - U

U

Universalism

synonym for moral universalism, as a compromise between moral relativism and moral absolutism.

Utilitarianism

theory of ethics based on quantitative maximization of total welfare for a specific population of humans. It is a form of consequentialism. Welfare is generally described hedonistically. Utilitarianism is summarized as "The greatest happiness for the greatest number."

Utopianism

the many various social and political movements, and a significant body of religious and secular literature, based upon the idea that paradise is achievable on earth. See Utopia.