Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
justify-the-means
phrase
/ˈdʒʌs.tɪ.faɪ ði miːnz/
Definition
A principle that asserts that the morality of an action is justified by the outcome it produces.
Examples
- He believed that in a competitive world, sometimes you have to justify the means to achieve success.
- Many ethical debates center around whether it’s ever acceptable to justify the means for a so-called greater good.
Meaning
The idea that actions, even if morally questionable, can be acceptable if they lead to a desirable result.
Synonyms
- the end justifies the means
- consequentialism
- utilitarianism
