Bentham's utilitarianism is described as part of which school of thought?

• A. Classical
• B. Kantian
• C. Existentialist
• D. Postmodern

Answer: (A)

Bentham's utilitarianism belongs to the classical utilitarian tradition, which centers on the principle of utility: actions are right if they promote the greatest happiness and least suffering for the greatest number. This labeling places Bentham squarely in the classical school of ethical theory, alongside similar utilitarian ideas that focus on consequences and overall well-being as the standard of right action.

Kantian ethics, by contrast, is about duty and universal moral laws rather than outcomes. Existentialism focuses on individual meaning and authenticity, not a happiness-based calculus. Postmodern thought questions grand narratives and objective truths rather than a systematic welfare-based criterion. So the best fit for Bentham’s approach is the classical school.