Consequentialist theory is a moral theory based on the idea that the moral value of a decision or action is based upon results. Consequences or outcomes are compared and decisions are made in favor of the consequences or outcomes that favor either and individual or group (CET). Therefore, moral "codes" are based upon generally or relatively good projected results. There are no absolutes in consequentialist theory; therefore morality becomes a relative term defined by environment and actions. Two theories at opposite ends of the consequentialist spectrum are ethical egoism, which focuses on consequences that benefit the individual; and utilitarianism, which focuses on consequences that benefit the group or society of the individual.
Ethical egoism asserts that we are all basically selfish creatures (IEP). The justification for putting "self" first is that selfishness is the condition of the natural man. In order to be true to our nature and accurate in our judgments we must consider our own benefits first (Wikipedia). Selfishness is the "highest principal of morality (Wilkins 46). Proponents of the theory assume a common level of integrity exists within us and consequently, our collective, individual selfishness is a cure for all human ills (Wilkins 50). Good and right are reduced to an individual relative benefit based on perceptions driven by personal need and desire (Wilkins 54-55). Difficulty arises immediately given the common weaknesses of man (Prov 21) and the diversity of human perception. Variables such as economic status, level of education and physical health produce such diversity in perception that inevitably conflicts of interest or conflicts of perception will arise. .
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In contrast, utilitarianism, also a consequentialist theory provides boundaries that do not exist in ethical egoism. Utilitarianism includes the principal of altruism, unlike ethical egoism, which does not (Wilkins 46).
