Evolution and Theoretical Implications of the Utility Concept

This article examines the evolution of the concept of utility in economics, addressing the conceptual and terminological fragmentation that characterises the interdisciplinary debate. The study adopts the scoping review framework to systematically analyse the main theoretical approaches, ranging from utility as preference to utility as subjective satisfaction and well-being. Particular attention is paid to procedural utility, i.e. the utility derived from the way decisions are made and interactions develop, divided into three areas: individual, linked to autonomy and self-determination; interpersonal, linked to the quality of social relations; and institutional, referring to participation and recognition. The analysis is based on three research questions: (i) how different theoretical traditions have interpreted utility and well-being; (ii) what convergences and divergences emerge in the contemporary literature; (iii) what implications this has for research and public policy. The results highlight the complementarity between approaches and suggest extending economic reflection to dimensions that are central to the well-being of individuals and societies.