Single Idea 22410

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / B. Value / 1. Nature of Value / f. Ultimate value]

Full Idea

One might have the idea that the unthinkable was itself a moral category. ...Regarding certain things even as alternatives is itself something to be regarded as dishonourable or morally absurd.

Gist of Idea

Maybe the unthinkable is a moral category, and considering some options is dishonourable or absurd

Source

Bernard Williams (A Critique of Utilitarianism [1973], 2)

Book Reference

Smart,J./Williams,B.: 'Utilitarianism For and Against' [CUP 1978], p.92


A Reaction

He's very tentative about this, but I think it is a powerful moral idea. See Kekes. He is particularly aiming at utilitarians, who happily assess vile possibilities.

Related Ideas

Idea 519 One must avoid even speaking of evil deeds [Democritus (attr)]

Idea 20151 Our attitudes include what possibilities we value, and also what is allowable, and unthinkable [Kekes]