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mwengler comments on A (small) critique of total utilitarianism - Less Wrong
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This is untrue in general. I would prefer that someone who I am unaware of be happy, but it cannot make me happier since I am unaware of that person. In general, it is important to draw a distinction between the concept of a utility function, which describes decisions being made, and that of a hedonic function, which describes happiness, or, if you are not purely a hedonic utilitarian, whatever functions describe other things that are mentioned in, but not identical to, your utility function.
There may be many people who's utility you are not aware of, but there are also many people whos utility you are aware of, and whos utility you can effect with your actions. I think @prase points are quite interesting just considering the ones in your awareness/ sphere of influence.
I'm not sure exactly why prase disagrees with me - I can think of many mutually exclusive reasons that it would take a while to write out individually - but since two people have now responded I guess I should ask for clarification. Why is the scenario described impossible?