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Single Idea 5902

[from 'Principia Ethica' by G.E. Moore, in 22. Metaethics / C. The Good / 1. Goodness / c. Right and good ]

Full Idea

Moore claims that 'right' means 'productive of the greatest possible good'.

Gist of Idea

For Moore, 'right' is what produces good

Source

report of G.E. Moore (Principia Ethica [1903]) by W. David Ross - The Right and the Good §I

Book Reference

Ross,W.David: 'The Right and the Good' [OUP 1930], p.8


A Reaction

Ross is at pains to keep 'right' and 'good' as quite distinct notions. Some actions are right but very unpleasant, and seem to produce no real good at all.