PoliticsAugust 16, 2026

consequentialism

kon-suh-KWEN-shuh-liz-um

Definition

An ethical theory that judges the rightness or wrongness of an action solely based on its outcomes or effects rather than by adherence to rules or duties.

Etymology

Derived from the English word 'consequence,' originating from the Latin 'consequentia,' meaning 'that which follows.' It emerged in philosophical discourse in the 1950s to describe teleological moral theories.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe a naive belief that truth and progress are inevitable results of free speech, rather than outcomes requiring active protection.

Is Free Speech a Dangerous Idea?

Read the full article ↗

newpol.org

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