Does utilitarianism justify inequality?
Utilitarianism would certainly frown on plantation slavery in the Antebellum South. A few owners were supported by many slaves; the pleasure gained by the masters did not outweigh the pain caused the slaves. However, suppose with technology 51 percent of the population could become idle masters supported by 49 percent in slavery (which some believe is the direction that Social Security and Medicare are taking us), would Utilitarianism say that this is the right way to organize society? Consider, though, the possibility of envy, with all its pains. You need some story to prevent revolts. When religions promise rewards after death for those who are meek, it gets people to accept their lot on earth. But what about when religions get behind revolt? Or people no longer believe?
