more from Bernard Williams

Single Idea 4112

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 2. Elements of Virtue Theory / c. Motivation for virtue]

Full Idea

Recently there has been much emphasis on the importance of our capacity to have second-order desires - the desire to have certain desires - and its significance for ethical reflection and the practical consciousness.

Gist of Idea

A crucial feature of moral thought is second-order desire - the desire to have certain desires

Source

Bernard Williams (Ethics and the Limits of Philosophy [1985], Ch. 1)

Book Reference

Williams,Bernard: 'Ethics and the Limits of Philosophy' [Fontana 1985], p.11


A Reaction

This is a crucial point if we are to defend a reasonably rational view of morality against (say) emotivism. I agree that it is crucial to morality.