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Single Idea 21045

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 2. Natural Purpose / b. Limited purposes]

Full Idea

It is not easy to dispense with teleological reasoning in thinking about social institutions and political practices.

Gist of Idea

Teleological thinking is essential for social and political issues

Source

Michael J. Sandel (Justice: What's the right thing to do? [2009], 08)

A Reaction

I think teleological thinking is also indispensable in biology. You can't understand an ear or an eye if you don't know what it is FOR. If it relates to a mind, it is teleological. The eye of a dead person is for nothing.

Book Reference

Sandel,Michael J.: 'Justice: what's the right thing to do?' [Penguin 2010], p.190