We have a large number of consumers (labelled i = 1, 2, . . .), with utility functions ui(x) where x is an allocation of goods in the economy. To maximise social welfare, we find the maximum of U where U = P i ui(x) over the possible values of x.

Using your knowledge of utility and choices, what are the issues with this kind of "social welfare" function (often called utilitarian). Discuss, being specific and relating to the concepts developed in this course.