Single Idea 22451

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / A. Ethics Foundations / 1. Nature of Ethics / e. Ethical cognitivism]

Full Idea

There is a great deal that all men have in common; all need affection, the cooperation of others, a place in a community, and help in trouble.

Gist of Idea

All people need affection, cooperation, community and help in trouble

Source

Philippa Foot (Moral Relativism [1979], p.33)

Book Reference

Foot,Philippa: 'Moral Dilemmas' [OUP 2002], p.33


A Reaction

There seem to be some people who don't need affection or a place in a community, though it is hard to imagine them being happy. These kind of facts are the basis for any sensible cognitivist view of ethics. They are basic to Foot's view.