Single Idea 20286

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / A. Ethics Foundations / 2. Source of Ethics / c. Ethical intuitionism]

Full Idea

When following conscience means doing as one's 'internal voice' prompts one to do, to follow one's conscience it so abdicate one's responsibility as a rational agent.

Gist of Idea

Following an inner voice for morality is irresponsible in a rational agent

Source

Peter Singer (Practical Ethics [1979], 09)

Book Reference

Singer,Peter: 'Practical Ethics' [CUP 1989], p.185


A Reaction

Seems dead right. An inner voice is far more likely to be your culture and upbringing than to be an absolute moral truth. It may not be entirely wrong, though, to behave as your culture requires.