Single Idea 19946

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / B. Contract Ethics / 1. Contractarianism]

Full Idea

The origin and nature of morality is a compromise between the ideal of doing wrong without paying for it, and the worst situation, which is having wrong done to one while lacking the means of exacting compensation.

Gist of Idea

Morality is a compromise, showing restraint, to avoid suffering wrong without compensation

Source

Plato (The Republic [c.371 BCE], 359a)

Book Reference

Plato: 'Republic', ed/tr. Waterfield,Robin [OUP 1993], p.46


A Reaction

This idea is from Glaucon, and is not endorsed by Socrates. Hobbes thought it was right, though he emphasised safety. Game theory makes this approach to moraliy much more plausible.

Related Idea

Idea 10 After a taste of mutual harm, men make a legal contract to avoid it [Plato]