Combining Texts

Ideas for 'The Elm and the Expert', 'Journals' and 'An Outline of Philosophy'

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2 ideas

22. Metaethics / C. The Good / 1. Goodness / b. Types of good
Goodness is a combination of love and knowledge [Russell]
     Full Idea: The good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge.
     From: Bertrand Russell (An Outline of Philosophy [1927], Ch 22)
     A reaction: Forty years later, Russell's famous filmed message to posteriority said exactly this. In decision making, get the facts; in relationships, show love and tolerance. I find both parts inspiring.
22. Metaethics / C. The Good / 2. Happiness / d. Routes to happiness
In wartime, happiness is hating the enemy, because it gives the war a purpose [Russell]
     Full Idea: During and immediately after the war [14-18], those who hated the Germans were happier than those who still regarded them as human beings, because they could feel that what was being done served a good purpose.
     From: Bertrand Russell (An Outline of Philosophy [1927], Ch 22)
     A reaction: A striking remark. There are lots of situations where hatred seems to increase happiness. Russell is roughly defending consequentialism.