Single Idea 22464

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / C. The Good / 1. Goodness / g. Consequentialism]

Full Idea

The idea of the goodness of total states of affairs played no part in Aristotle's moral philosophy, and in modern times plays not part either in Rawls's account of justice or in the theories of more thoroughgoing contractualists such as Scanlon.

Gist of Idea

The idea of a good state of affairs has no role in the thought of Aristotle, Rawls or Scanlon

Source

Philippa Foot (Utilitarianism and the Virtues [1985], p.76)

Book Reference

Foot,Philippa: 'Moral Dilemmas' [OUP 2002], p.76


A Reaction

We can add Kant to that. But if the supremely good state of affairs were permanently achieved, would that make morality irrelevant? A community of the exceptionally virtuous would not need the veil of ignorance, or contracts.