___________ ___________ theory posits that decisions are right when they maximize individual self-interest.

___________ ___________ theory posits that decisions are right when they maximize individual self-interest.

• A. Ethical egoism
• B. Utilitarianism
• C. Deontology
• D. Virtue ethics

Answer: (A)

The statement reflects ethical egoism, which says a morally right action is the one that best serves the agent’s own interests. In this view, rightness is determined by how well the act promotes the individual’s self-interest, not by outcomes for others, duties, or character traits. This differs from utilitarianism, which judges actions by their overall consequences for everyone affected (the greatest good for the greatest number). It also differs from deontology, which bases rightness on following duties or rules regardless of outcomes, and from virtue ethics, which centers on cultivating good character and virtues rather than evaluating actions by self-interest alone.

The statement reflects ethical egoism, which says a morally right action is the one that best serves the agent’s own interests. In this view, rightness is determined by how well the act promotes the individual’s self-interest, not by outcomes for others, duties, or character traits.

This differs from utilitarianism, which judges actions by their overall consequences for everyone affected (the greatest good for the greatest number). It also differs from deontology, which bases rightness on following duties or rules regardless of outcomes, and from virtue ethics, which centers on cultivating good character and virtues rather than evaluating actions by self-interest alone.