more from William James

Single Idea 22660

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / A. Ethics Foundations / 2. Source of Ethics / d. Biological ethics]

Full Idea

The philosophy of evolution offers us today a new criterion, which is objective and fixed, as an ethical test between right and wrong: That is to be called good which is destined to prevail or survive.

Gist of Idea

Evolution suggests prevailing or survival as a new criterion of right and wrong

Source

William James (The Sentiment of Rationality [1882], p.44)

Book Reference

James,William: 'Selected Writings of William James', ed/tr. Bird,Graham [Everyman 1995], p.44


A Reaction

Perceptive for its time. Herbert Spencer may have suggested the idea. James dismisses it, because it implies a sort of fatalism, whereas genuine moral choices are involved in what survives.