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Single Idea 6586

[from 'Walking the Tightrope of Reason' by Robert Fogelin, in 22. Metaethics / A. Ethics Foundations / 2. Source of Ethics / e. Human nature ]

Full Idea

Cynics are usually unswerving in their commitment to a moral ideal, but disappointed or disgusted by humanity's failure to meet it.

Gist of Idea

Cynics are committed to morality, but disappointed or disgusted by human failings

Source

Robert Fogelin (Walking the Tightrope of Reason [2003], Ch.3)

Book Reference

Fogelin,Robert: 'Walking the Tightrope of Reason' [OUP 2004], p.97


A Reaction

I felt quite suicidal the other day when I saw someone park diagonally across two parking spaces. They can't seem to grasp the elementary Kantian slogan 'What if everybody did that?' It's all hopeless. I wonder if I am becoming a bit of a Cynic?