more from Bernard Williams

Single Idea 2180

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / D. Deontological Ethics / 6. Motivation for Duty]

Full Idea

If we think the power of reason is not enough by itself to distinguish good and bad, then we would hope that people have limited autonomy, that there is an internalised other in them that carries some social weight.

Gist of Idea

If reason cannot lead people to good, we must hope they have an internal voice

Source

Bernard Williams (Shame and Necessity [1993], IV - p.100)

Book Reference

Williams,Bernard: 'Shame and Necessity' [California 1994], p.100