The aim of government is the greatest happiness of the greatest number.
Meaning
It defines governance purpose.
Best Motivation Quotes with Meaning
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About the author
(1748–1832) was an English philosopher and social reformer known for founding utilitarianism, the idea that actions should maximize happiness. Bentham’s work influenced law, ethics, and political theory. He advocated for social reforms, including prison reform and individual rights. His principle of ‘the greatest happiness for the greatest number’ remains central to ethical debates. Jeremy Bentham’s ideas continue to shape discussions on morality and public policy.
Why This Quote Matters
Here Jeremy Bentham names something many feel yet rarely articulate: the pull of Happiness. The weight of the line comes from It defines governance purpose.
That kind of clarity tends to compound when you revisit it often. Keep the line somewhere you’ll actually see it again.
How to Apply This Quote in Life
Trade a passive habit for one active step tied to Happiness this week. Notice where you already practice this without labeling it; then widen that path.
Check back on it after a setback—that’s when the idea actually gets tested. That’s a fair test of whether the idea holds up in your life.
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