Single Idea 20547

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 3. Virtues / h. Respect]

Full Idea

Forcing people to do what is rational involves a lack of respect, a failure to respect the value of her living her life in her own (irrational) way.

Gist of Idea

We should respect the right of people to live in their own way, even if it is irrational

Source

Adam Swift (Political Philosophy (3rd ed) [2014], 2 'Resisting' 6)

Book Reference

Swift,Adam: 'Political Philosophy (3rd edn)' [Polity 2014], p.91


A Reaction

Up to a point. Irrationally eccentric is one thing, and irrationally self-destructive is another. You can sit back and watch your children embrace a life less happy than the one you wanted for them - but not a life of utter misery.