What ethical framework involves making a decision that creates the greatest good for the greatest number of people?

The concept that describes making decisions to achieve the greatest good for the greatest number is known as the utilitarian-based framework. This ethical approach focuses on the outcomes or consequences of actions, measuring their effectiveness based on the collective benefit they provide to the majority of people involved.

Utilitarianism posits that the right course of action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or minimizes suffering, thereby prioritizing the common good. This framework guides decision-makers to evaluate the impact of their choices by considering how many people will benefit and to what extent, ultimately aiming to produce the best possible outcome for the largest group.

In contrast, other frameworks such as the rights-based framework concentrate on the entitlements and rights of individuals, thus focusing on safeguarding each person's freedoms over overall outcomes. The justice-based framework emphasizes fairness and equality in the distribution of benefits and burdens, ensuring that everyone is treated justly rather than solely considering majority benefit. Deontological ethics, on the other hand, is grounded in rules and duties, focusing on the morality of actions performed rather than their consequences.