PHIL 146 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Relativism, Isolationism, Categorical Imperative
Document Summary
Rejection of moral isolationism? (midgley: no barriers) What role does morality play within the law (social contract) Hobbes: morality is a universal construct of prudence, but it needs political power to put it in effect, not being able to bind that power. Locke: morality is a universal given, and it does not need but can be helped by political power, which is bound by morality. What is the best account of morality (and its demands)- without specifically looking at the law. Mill: good (happiness) defines what is right (duty to impartially promote it) Kant: the right defines what is ultimately good (good will) Pleasure, and freedom from pain, are the only things desirable (91l) Distinction between lower and higher pleasures (quantity vs quality 91l) All do agree, if they are equally acquainted with, and equally capable of appreciating and enjoying both (91r) Few human creatures would like to change places with happy animals (91r) sense of dignity.