[From English consequential: following something else, especially as an effect or result; derived from Latin consequi: to follow closely.]
(ethics) The view that ethical decisions are best or properly be made on the basis of the expected outcome or consequences of the action. Both pragmatism and utilitarianism are forms of consequentialism. Because consequentialist theories tend to focus on the impact of an action on other persons rather than the actor, in general they are varieties of altruism rather than egoism.