On the face of it, this criticism carries the day against any rule utilitarianism which is genuinely distinguishable from act utilitarianism.

Act utilitarianism is often contrasted with a different theory called rule utilitarianism.

Although his moral system shares similarities to deontology, rule utilitarianism, and contractarianism, Gert does not ally himself with any of those positions.

Smart gave two arguments against rule utilitarianism.

Smart's arguments against rule utilitarianism have been very influential, contributing to a steady decline in its popularity among ethicists during the late 20th century.

The ethical foundation of democratic transhumanism rests upon rule utilitarianism and non-anthropocentric personhood theory.

Passive Obedience is notable partly for containing one of the earliest statements of rule utilitarianism.

Proportionalist theories like rule utilitarianism, however, say it is never right to go against a principle unless a proportionate reason would justify it.

Some school level textbooks and at least one UK examination board make a further distinction between strong and weak rule utilitarianism.

Under rule utilitarianism, a human right can easily be considered a moral rule.