There are three basic propositions in standard utilitarianism.

Actions are judged right and wrong based solely on their consequences. In other words, if the action has a beneficial outcome, the action is right.

To assess consequences, all we need to do is measure happiness.

If the action makes the majority of people happy, the action is right.

Here is a dilemma for our class. It illuminates the value of and the issues surrounding utilitarianism.

You are a U$.$S$.$ Senator. You represent your home state. The House of Representatives has sent the Senate a bill that will forgive all college student loan debt in perpetuity. It is up to the Senate to pass it and send it to the president to be signed into law. You are the swing vote. If you vote yes, it will pass, and the president has already agreed to sign it if it passes the Senate. If you vote no$,$ it will fail.

Those who favor the bill cite the following benefits.

It will encourage more people to go to college.

It will result in more diversity on college campuses.

More people will graduate from college.

The economy will benefit from a more educated workforce.

Those opposed cite these negative aspects.

Taxes will need to be raised to pay for this plan.

Those who already paid back their student loans will not get a refund.

Military recruitment may suffer, because tuition benefits will no longer be relevant.

Colleges will probably raise tuition considerably.

The majority rules here, so you must be extra careful as a utilitarian not to abuse that power. You are looking out for the most happiness for the most people, regardless of your personal beliefs.