“The greatest good for the greatest amount of people,” this core explanation of utilitarianism sounds great on the surface. After all, it aims to make the majority of people happy right? The only problem is, by its very definition, it neglects the minority. It does not say “greatest good for all people.” This is why the ethical guideline cannot be used to guide the thought process in all situations.

Sure it works for some situations. The idea of giving voice to the majority, rather than the select and powerful few is what established the foundation of this country. If you have to make decisions, and let’s face it all of us do every day, than there has to be some compromise. The truth is not everyone will be happy with the outcome.

But what happens when this majority uses their numbers to overrule and exploit the minority? The majority begins to exert its beliefs and values on this small group. A look at history can show us that when no voice is given to this small group than these people end up being hurt or put down in some way. For me, it brings to mind the treatment of Native Americans in the United States during the 1800s. Government decisions such as the 1830 Indian Removal Act and the idea that Native Americans must be assimilated into the American society provide an example of the majority forcing the minority to take on their culture, language, clothing…ect.

      “I am not aware that any community has a right to force another to be civilized.”

                                                                                                                 -John Stuart Mill