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What are some examples of societies or cultures that have embraced Utilitarianism, and what are the results?

Muhammad Mazzia

Utilitarianism is a philosophy aimed at causing the greatest amount of happiness to a maximum number of people. Societies and cultures that have embraced Utilitarianism often prioritize collective benefits over individual interests.

One of the most prominent examples of a society that adopted Utilitarianism is the United States. The country is known for its founding ideals of liberty, justice, and equality for all, which has led to the development of Utilitarianism since the 19th century. Over the decades, American society witnessed remarkable progress in the domains of human rights and social welfare, which have significantly contributed to making the U.S. one of the world's most prosperous societies. The idea that the government should be committed to doing the greatest good for the greatest number of people has resulted in policies like universal healthcare, equal education opportunities, and job creation.

Another society that has embraced Utilitarianism is the Scandinavian countries. The Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden were among the first to embrace the welfare state model, which put the welfare of the collective over the welfare of the individual. The focus of the model was to provide security and social safety nets for everyone, regardless of their social status. The results of this Utilitarian approach have been remarkable, and the Scandinavian countries have ranked among the happiest, most prosperous, and most equal societies worldwide.

The Chinese government has also embraced Utilitarianism, as it puts the welfare of its people first. For instance, the government has made health and education top priorities in its development plans and has been credited with the successful implementation of the one-child policy, which significantly reduced the population growth rate. Besides, China's rapid economic growth has led to a significant rise in living standards over the past few decades, which has undoubtedly contributed to its Utilitarian philosophy.

In conclusion, Utilitarianism has been embraced by numerous cultures and societies across the globe over the past few centuries. The results of this approach have been significant, with the societies enjoying a more equitable distribution of resources and wealth. However, while there have been notable successes, some challenges remain, including the struggle to balance collective needs versus individual rights. Ultimately, the Utilitarian method provides an essential framework for policymakers and citizens alike to begin to address these issues and build happier and more prosperous societies.