Does utilitarianism consider everyone's interests equally?

Utilitarianism is a consequentialist ethical theory that posits that the right action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or utility. However, this theory does not inherently guarantee that everyone's interests are considered equally in every circumstance. There are instances where the interests of certain individuals or groups may take precedence over others, particularly if their contributions or needs significantly influence the overall happiness or welfare.

For example, in decision-making processes, the welfare of the majority may be prioritized over that of a minority if it leads to a greater net utility, leading to scenarios that do not treat all individuals' interests equally. This aspect highlights the practical challenges of applying utilitarian principles in diverse situations, as well as the potential for conflicts among individual interests. Thus, while the fundamental idea of utilitarianism aims for the greatest good for the greatest number, it reveals a nuance in how interests are weighed in real-world applications.