more from Harry G. Frankfurt

Single Idea 9238

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / A. Ethics Foundations / 2. Source of Ethics / b. Rational ethics]

Full Idea

The ultimate warrant for moral principles cannot be found in reason. The sort of opprobrium that attaches to moral transgressions is quite unlike the sort of opprobrium that attaches to the requirements of reason.

Gist of Idea

Morality isn't based on reason; moral indignation is quite unlike disapproval of irrationality

Source

Harry G. Frankfurt (The Reasons of Love [2005], 2.5 n6)

Book Reference

Frankfurt,Harry G.: 'The Reasons of Love' [Princeton 2006], p.47


A Reaction

More like a piece of evidence than a proper argument. We may not feel indignant if someone fails a maths exam, but we might if they mess up the arithmetic of our bank account, even though they meant well.