The Elements of Moral Philosophy, by James Rachels, contains an exposition of Utilitarianism that considers the strengths and weaknesses of this unique moral philosophy. Like all ethical theories, Utilitarianism advances a conception of the Good that is expected to prevail. All action, if it is to be considered moral, or Right, must conform to that ethical conception of the Good. In Utilitarianism, the Good is happiness, and action that produces the most happiness for the most people is Right action. Conversely, it is wrong to take any action that produces the opposite of happiness, that is, unhappiness.
As an action-guiding philosophy, Utilitarianism appears at first glance to be satisfactory. When an actor is weighing alternative actions in a utilitarian society that actor will choose whatever action is expected to have, in Rachels' words, "the best overall consequences for everyone concerned (80)." In this, the most happiness is produced, and the Principle of Utility is satisfied. As Rachels rightly observes, this brand of moral philosophy, in keeping its overarching principles in the realm of the corporeal, swiftly wrenches ethics out of the hands of God. Human beings, acting as Utilitarians, need not memorize a code of conduct or adhere to an abstract standard of Goodness in order to act rightly. All humans will need to satisfy the Principle of Utility is common sense: a feel for what will promote pleasure and reduce pain, and thus have the most favorable consequences for all.
As Rachels observes, the action-guiding nature of the Principle of Utility will admittedly have us reach some startling conclusions. As an example, a Utilitarian society will allow for (if not embrace) euthanasia. As a speedy death can certainly be a welcome release from a life of excruciating pain, so a euthanasia policy, where properly applied, can be thought to maximize happiness while reducing unhappiness. Similarly, as Utilitar...