English philosopher Jeremy Bentham (1748-1832) developed utilitarian ethics based on the "greatest happiness principle." This child prodigy entered Oxford at 12 before creating revolutionary reforms advocating for criminal justice reform, women's rights, animal welfare, and decriminalization of homosexuality�all radically ahead of his time. His Panopticon prison concept transformed architectural thinking, while his request to have his preserved body displayed at University College London (where it remains today) embodied his commitment to social utility even after death. His legacy continues through evidence-based policy and effective altruism movements.

"Secrecy, being an instrument of conspiracy, ought never to be the system of a regular government."



"Stretching his hand up to reach the stars, too often man forgets the flowers at his feet."



"It is vain to talk of the interest of the community, without understanding what is the interest of the individual."



"No power of government ought to be employed in the endeavor to establish any system or article of belief on the subject of religion."



"The age we live in is a busy age; in which knowledge is rapidly advancing towards perfection."



"As to the evil which results from a censorship, it is impossible to measure it, for it is impossible to tell where it ends."



"The greatest happiness of the greatest number is the foundation of morals and legislation."

