Single Idea 7590

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

Full Idea

According to consequentialism, the fundamental concept of morality is not obligation (deontological ethics) but value (axiological ethics).

Clarification

Gk. 'deontos', a duty; 'axios', value

Gist of Idea

Consequentialism emphasises value rather than obligation in morality

Source

Roger Scruton (A Dictionary of Political Thought [1982], 'consequentialism')

Book Reference

Scruton,Roger: 'A Dictionary of Political Thought' [Pan 1983], p.89


A Reaction

These two views could come dramatically apart, in wartime, or in big ecological crises, or in a family breakup, or in religious disputes. Having identified the pair so clearly, why can we not aim for a civilised (virtuous) balance between the two?