consequentialism

noun

con·​se·​quen·​tial·​ism ˌkän(t)-sə-ˈkwen(t)-shə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce consequentialism (audio)
: the theory that the value and especially the moral value of an act should be judged by the value of its consequences
consequentialist
ˌkän(t)-sə-ˈkwen(t)-shə-ˌlist How to pronounce consequentialism (audio)
adjective or noun

Examples of consequentialism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Trolley Problem is a thought experiment in ethics that presents a moral dilemma, often used to explore the principles of consequentialism and deontology. — Reece Rogers, WIRED, 3 Mar. 2024 And his ethical philosophy remained focused on suffering, a good fit for British utilitarian consequentialism, an intellectual tradition in which promoting pleasure and reducing pain are seen as the primary mandates of ethics. — Oliver Traldi, Washington Post, 4 May 2023

Word History

Etymology

consequential + -ism

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of consequentialism was in 1958

Rhymes for consequentialism

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Browse Nearby Words

consequential contempt
consequentialism
consequently
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Cite this Entry

“Consequentialism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/consequentialism. Accessed 18 Apr. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on consequentialism

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about consequentialism

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