It is associated too much with the comforts and conveniences of life; too little with 'the goods of the soul which we desire for their own sake.' In a great trial, or danger, or temptation, or in any great and heroic action, it is scarcely thought of.

For these reasons 'the greatest happiness' principle is not the true foundation of ethics.

But though not the first principle, it is the second, which is like unto it, and is often of easier application.

For the larger part of human actions are neither right nor wrong, except in so far as they tend to the happiness of mankind (Introd.

to Gorgias and Philebus).
The same question reappears in politics, where the useful or expedient seems to claim a larger sphere and to have a greater authority.