Final answer:
The statement that the utilitarian approach can sometimes create unacceptable harm to the few in pursuit of the greatest good for the majority is true.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the utilitarian approach to decision-making can create unacceptable harm to the few even if it creates the greatest good for the greatest number is true. Utilitarianism promotes actions that maximize happiness and welfare overall; however, this could potentially justify actions causing harm to a minority if the majority benefits. Situations can arise where utilitarian principles might endorse decisions that conflict with moral standards, such as punishing an innocent person to prevent riots or allowing vigilante justice if it seems to increase overall happiness. This highlights a significant critique of utilitarianism: it can lead to morally problematic outcomes where the rights or well-being of certain individuals are sacrificed for the benefit of the majority.
Philosophers like John Stuart Mill have attempted to mitigate some of these issues by proposing principles, such as the harm principle, to protect individual rights. Nonetheless, the core issue remains that the greatest happiness principle can, at times, come into conflict with justice and individual rights, presenting a significant moral dilemma.