The Basics of Consequentialism

Consequentialism, particularly utilitarianism, focuses on the outcomes of actions, aiming to maximise overall benefits and minimise harm.

In the context of an algorithm like COMPAS, a consequentialist approach could prioritise maximising overall accuracy insofar this approach yields the best aggregate outcome for society: fewer total errors and, ideally, enhanced public safety. From this perspective, maximising accuracy serves the collective good, as a highly accurate system is likely to make fewer mistakes overall, which could mean better allocation of resources and more just outcomes in many cases.