Single Idea 46

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / A. Ethics Foundations / 1. Nature of Ethics / d. Ethical theory]

Full Idea

That we should act according to the right principle is common ground and may be assumed as a basis for discussion.

Gist of Idea

We must take for granted that we should act according to right principle

Source

Aristotle (Nicomachean Ethics [c.334 BCE], 1103b31)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Ethics (Nicomachean)', ed/tr. ThomsonJ A K/TredennickH [Penguin 1976], p.93


A Reaction

Hume grumbles that we can't prove values from facts, but Aristotle that is an absurd aspiration. His 'Ethics' is simply a handbook for people who wish to be good human beings.

Related Idea

Idea 21415 Duty is impossible without prior moral feeling, conscience, love and self-respect [Kant]