Single Idea 23730

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / A. Ethics Foundations / 2. Source of Ethics / b. Rational ethics]

Full Idea

Moral 'rationalism' says if an action is right for agents in some circumstances, then there is a reason for the agents to do it.

Gist of Idea

'Rationalism' says the rightness of an action is a reason to perform it

Source

Michael Smith (The Moral Problem [1994], 3.1)

Book Reference

Smith,Michael: 'The Moral Problem' [Blackwell 1994], p.62


A Reaction

That is, there is not merely a motivation to act (the 'internalist' view), but there is a reason to act. Smith calls both views the 'practicality requirement' of normal moral judgements. Smith defends the rationalist view.

Related Ideas

Idea 23729 Moral internalism says a judgement of rightness is thereby motivating [Smith,M]

Idea 23731 'Externalists' say moral judgements are not reasons, and maybe not even motives [Smith,M]