Single Idea 22452

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / B. Value / 1. Nature of Value / f. Ultimate value]

Full Idea

Do we know what we mean by saying that anything has value, or even that we value it, as opposed to wanting it or being prepared to go to trouble to get it?

Gist of Idea

Do we have a concept of value, other than wanting something, or making an effort to get it?

Source

Philippa Foot (Moral Relativism [1979], p.35)

Book Reference

Foot,Philippa: 'Moral Dilemmas' [OUP 2002], p.35


A Reaction

Well, I value Rembrandt paintings, but have no aspiration to own one (and would refuse it if offered, because I couldn't look after it properly). And 'we' don't want to move the Taj Mahal to London. She has not expressed this good point very well.