Single Idea 4496

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / A. Ethics Foundations / 2. Source of Ethics / c. Ethical intuitionism]

Full Idea

"Conscience" was created as an inner voice which does not measure the value of every action with regard to its consequences, but with regard to its intention, and the degree to which this intention conforms with the "laws".

Gist of Idea

'Conscience' is invented to value actions by intention and conformity to 'law', rather than consequences

Source

Friedrich Nietzsche (The Will to Power (notebooks) [1888], §141)

Book Reference

Nietzsche,Friedrich: 'The Will to Power', ed/tr. Kaufmann,W /Hollingdate,R [Vintage 1968], p.90


A Reaction

The idea of conscience does seem to preserve moral authority in the absence of gods, but intentions need not only be judged by their obedience to laws.