There are lots of interesting ideas and hypotheticals in this work, (such as if we value the protection of the government as equal for each citizen, should not each citizen pay the same for that protection? Essentially, a flat tax. Not that I support a flat tax because of its other economic and social implications, but it is an interesting philosophical point), however, as an introduction to Utilitarianism, it is somewhat lacking. After reading it, I still don't have a complete grasp on the basics of the theory. Mill is pedantic and arrogant in his arguments (honestly, how many of his assertions can "hardly be disputed"?), and his sentences stretch on for pages without a full stop. My understanding is that Utilitarianism boils down to human beings should do what makes them happy, and only engage in activities that will make them unhappy or cause them pain if it increases the happiness of the group. As a philosophical basis upon which to base one's life I find it lacking.