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Full Idea
If generosity towards the needy in the long run produced [social] parasites, and if generosity did this systematically, then it would not be a moral virtue.
Gist of Idea
If generosity systematically turned recipients into parasites, it wouldn't be a virtue
Source
Julia Driver (The Virtues and Human Nature [1996], 5)
Book Ref
'How Should One Live? On the Virtues', ed/tr. Crisp,Roger [OUP 1998], p.125
A Reaction
A very persuasive example. Hume has similar views - that we encourage those emotions which have good social outcomes.
Related Idea
Idea 22522 To grasp something, trace it back to its natural origins [Aristotle]
| 23144 | Virtue should be defined by consequences, not by states of mind [Driver] |
| 23148 | Virtues are character traits or dispositions which produce good consequences for others [Driver] |
| 23146 | Motives produce intentions, which lead to actions [Driver] |
| 23147 | Good intentions are not necessary for virtue [Driver] |
| 23150 | Control of pregnancy and knowledge of paternity have downgraded chastity [Driver] |
| 23149 | If generosity systematically turned recipients into parasites, it wouldn't be a virtue [Driver] |