Many find this aspect of utilitarianism objectionable, and thus reject utilitarianism as a moral theory. For example, the philosopher David Oderberg writes with consequentialist theories in mind: "... the principle of the unconditional protection of human life is at the center of morality. No moral philosophy that demotes or qualifies this principle ... can hope to call itself humane or to command the respect of right-thinking people." (Applied Ethics: A non-consequentialist approach; p. 48)
What do you think? Why?