Which ethical theory judges actions by outcomes?

• A. Formalism
• B. Intuitionism
• C. Consequentialism
• D. Virtue Ethics

Answer: (C)

Consequence-based ethics evaluate the rightness of an action by its outcome. Consequentialism holds that an action is morally right if it produces the best overall results, often framed as maximizing happiness, welfare, or utility. This emphasis on results distinguishes it from other approaches: formalism (deontological ethics) judges actions by adherence to rules or duties regardless of outcomes; intuitionism relies on immediate moral intuitions about what feels right; virtue ethics assesses actions based on whether they reflect virtuous character. For example, a consequentialist might deem a beneficial lie morally permissible if it leads to better overall outcomes, while a deontologist would oppose lying because it violates a moral rule, and virtue ethics would consider what the action says about the actor’s character.