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Full Idea
We increase our control by making our actions more and more the effects of our attitudes, and less and less the effects of external forces acting on us independently of our attitudes.
Gist of Idea
To control our actions better, make them result from our attitudes, not from circumstances
Source
John Kekes (The Human Condition [2010], 02.4)
Book Ref
Kekes,John: 'The Human Condition' [OUP 2010], p.43
A Reaction
He says that the attitudes should be focused on our well-being. Attitudes may also, however, serve some exernal ideal, such as altruism or patriotism. He has built a case for 'control' being a much more important value than 'free will'.
| 16 | We avoid evil either through a natural aversion, or because we have acquired knowledge [Plato] |
| 22515 | Choice results when deliberation brings together an opinion with an inclination [Aristotle] |
| 24113 | Our motives don't explain our actions [Nietzsche] |
| 20045 | Acting for a reason is a combination of a pro attitude, and a belief that the action is appropriate [Davidson] |
| 20149 | To control our actions better, make them result from our attitudes, not from circumstances [Kekes] |
| 4325 | Must all actions be caused in part by a desire, or can a belief on its own be sufficient? [Hursthouse] |