more on this theme | more from this thinker
Full Idea
It has been suggested that one criterion for a good moral system is that it should be possible to demand reciprocity from every individual because of the good the system renders to him.
Gist of Idea
A good moral system benefits its participants, and so demands reciprocity
Source
Philippa Foot (Morality, Action, and Outcome [1985], p.104)
Book Ref
Foot,Philippa: 'Moral Dilemmas' [OUP 2002], p.104
A Reaction
Money seems to have this feature, that we mostly conform to the rules for its use, because we value the whole system. Foot accepts this, but says there are also other criteria, such as leaving freedom to live well (ie. not too puritanical).
| 22468 | Virtues can have aims, but good states of affairs are not among them [Foot] |
| 22469 | Some virtues imply rules, and others concern attachment [Foot] |
| 22470 | A good moral system benefits its participants, and so demands reciprocity [Foot] |
| 22465 | We see a moral distinction between doing and allowing to happen [Foot] |
| 22466 | We see a moral distinction between our aims and their foreseen consequences [Foot] |
| 22467 | Acts and omissions only matter if they concern doing something versus allowing it [Foot] |