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Single Idea 21517

[filed under theme 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 3. Virtues / h. Respect ]

Full Idea

What we shall desire for individuals is now clear: strong creative impulses, overpowering and absorbing the instinct of possession; reverence for others; respect for the fundamental creative impulses in ourselves.

Gist of Idea

Individuals need creativity, reverence for others, and self-respect

Source

Bertrand Russell (Political Ideals [1917], 1)

Book Ref

Russell,Bertrand: 'Political Ideals' [Spokesman 2007], p.14


A Reaction

Interesting that when Russell focuses on morality, he turns to virtues, rather than to rules. He uses 'reverence' where I would favour 'respect'. His concept of creativity is broad, and does not just concern art etc.


The 13 ideas from 'Political Ideals'

Individuals need creativity, reverence for others, and self-respect [Russell]
We would not want UK affairs to be settled by a world parliament [Russell]
Democracy is inadequate without a great deal of devolution [Russell]
Anarchy does not maximise liberty [Russell]
Men unite in pursuit of material things, and idealise greed as part of group loyalty [Russell]
That our heaven is a dull place reflects the misery of excessive work in life [Russell]
Theoretical and practical politics are both concerned with the best lives for individuals [Russell]
We need security and liberty, and then encouragement of creativity [Russell]
When the state is the only employer, there is no refuge from the prejudices of other people [Russell]
The right to own land gives a legal right to a permanent income [Russell]
Unfortunately ordinary voters can't detect insincerity [Russell]
Groups should be autonomous, with a neutral authority as arbitrator [Russell]
On every new question the majority is always wrong at first [Russell]