Single Idea 5310

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

Full Idea

Philosophers examine the precepts of ethical systems with reference to their consequences and not their origins.

Gist of Idea

Philosophers study the consequences of ethics instead of its origins

Source

Edmund O. Wilson (On Human Nature [1978], Ch.1)

Book Reference

Wilson,Edward O.: 'On Human Nature' [Penguin 1995], p.5


A Reaction

He is interested in biological origins, but it strikes me that every moral theory has some account of the origins of morality, be it pure reason, or the love of pleasure, or human nature, or eternal ideas, or the will of God, or selfish desires.