Who was Jeremy Bentham?

Jeremy Bentham was a prominent philosopher known primarily for developing the ethical theory of utilitarianism, which holds that the best action is the one that maximizes utility, generally defined as the greatest happiness for the greatest number. Bentham's ideas marked a significant shift in moral philosophy, emphasizing the consequences of actions and their impact on overall well-being rather than focusing solely on duties or rules. His approach introduced a quantitative measure to ethics, advocating for actions that would lead to the most favorable outcomes for society as a whole. This framework laid the foundation for modern social and political philosophies and influenced later thinkers, particularly in discussions related to governance, law, and morality. Bentham's utilitarianism represents a key development in Enlightenment thought, stressing reason and evidence-based decision-making in moral considerations.