Single Idea 4248

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / D. Deontological Ethics / 2. Duty]

Full Idea

Not every conclusion of moral deliberation expresses an obligation; for example, some moral conclusions merely announce that you 'may' do something.

Gist of Idea

Not all moral deliberations lead to obligations; some merely reveal what 'may' be done

Source

Bernard Williams (Ethics and the Limits of Philosophy [1985], Ch.10)

Book Reference

Williams,Bernard: 'Ethics and the Limits of Philosophy' [Fontana 1985], p.175


A Reaction

An important point for any deontological ethics. It may be possible to translate what 'may' be done into some form of duty, but it will probably involve contortions.