- Utilitarianism emerged as a moral theory that aimed to be based on empirical evidence and scientific methodology rather than speculative concepts. It evaluated actions based on their consequences and ability to produce the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people. - Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill were early proponents of utilitarianism. Bentham argued actions should be evaluated based on their ability to maximize pleasure and minimize pain. Mill believed happiness involved higher intellectual and spiritual pursuits, not just pleasure. - Later philosophers like Henry Sidgwick and G. E. Moore refined and critiqued utilitarianism. Sidgwick categorized moral theories and believed utilitarianism best reconciled individual and general happiness. Moore