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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'

We need security and liberty, and then encouragement of creativity [Russell]
Individuals need creativity, reverence for others, and self-respect [Russell]
We would not want UK affairs to be settled by a world parliament [Russell]
Anarchy does not maximise liberty [Russell]
Theoretical and practical politics are both concerned with the best lives for individuals [Russell]
Democracy is inadequate without a great deal of devolution [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]
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]