Single Idea 9760

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / B. Value / 2. Values / i. Self-interest]

Full Idea

For utilitarians, self-concern causes needless pain; for Kantians, it evinces a lack of respect for one's own humanity; for the religious moralist, it is a failure of responsibility for what has been placed in one's special care.

Gist of Idea

Self-concern may be a source of pain, or a lack of self-respect, or a failure of responsibility

Source

Christine M. Korsgaard (Intro to 'Creating the Kingdom of Ends' [1996], §5)

Book Reference

Korsgaard,Christine M.: 'Creating the Kingdom of Ends' [CUP 1996], p.382


A Reaction

Worryingly, given my heathenish views, I find the third one the most congenial. If we don't take responsibility for our own selves (e.g. for having a great talent), then no one (even parents) will take responsibility for anything.