45 Matching Annotations
  1. Mar 2024
    1. To most advocates of the ethics of care, the compelling moral claim of the particular other may be valid even when it conflicts with the requirement usually made by moral theories that moral judgments be universalizeable, and this is of fundamental moral importance.[6] Hence the potential conflict between care and justice, friendship and impartiality, loyalty and universality. To others, however, there need be no conflict if universal judgments come to incorporate appropriately the norms of care previously disregarded.

      The statement highlights a nuanced perspective within the ethics of care regarding the relationship between particular moral claims and universalize judgments. It suggests that while some advocates of the ethics of care prioritize the validity of individual moral claims, even if they conflict with universalize moral requirements, others argue for a reconciliation between care and justice, friendship, loyalty, and impartiality. This perspective acknowledges the potential for conflict between the principles of care and the demands of universality but also proposes the possibility of integrating care norms into universal judgments to resolve such conflicts. Ultimately, this discussion underscores the complexity of moral deliberations and the ongoing debate within the ethics of care regarding the interplay between particularity and universality in ethical reasoning.

    2. Third, the ethics of care rejects the view of the dominant moral theories that the more abstract the reasoning about a moral problem the better because the more likely to avoid bias and arbitrariness, the more nearly to achieve impartiality.

      A key aspect of the ethics of care, which challenges the perspective of dominant moral theories regarding abstract reasoning in moral problem-solving. It suggests that prioritizing abstract reasoning, often advocated by dominant moral theories, may not necessarily lead to better outcomes in ethical decision-making. Instead, the ethics of care emphasizes the importance of contextual understanding and interpersonal relationships in moral deliberations. By rejecting the notion that abstract reasoning alone can achieve impartiality and avoid bias, the ethics of care advocates for a more holistic approach that considers the unique circumstances and relational dynamics involved in moral dilemmas.

    3. Not all emotion is valued, of course, but in contrast with the dominant rationalist approaches, such emotions as sympathy, empathy, sensitivity, and responsiveness are seen as the kind of moral emotions that need to be cultivated not only to help in the implementation of the dictates of reason but to better ascertain what morality recommends.

      The statement contrasts rationalist approaches to morality by emphasizing the significance of certain emotions, including sympathy, empathy, sensitivity, and responsiveness. It suggests that these emotions are not only valuable in facilitating the implementation of rational dictates but also in providing insights into moral judgments and recommendations. By advocating for the cultivation of these moral emotions, the statement suggests a broader understanding of morality that incorporates both rational and emotional dimensions, thereby enriching ethical discourse and decision-making processes.

    4. All persons need care for at least their early years. Prospects for human progress and ourishing hinge fundamentally on the care that those needing it receive, and the ethics of care stresses the moral force of the responsibility to respond to the needs of the dependent.

      The statement underscores the universal need for care, particularly during the early stages of life. It emphasizes that the prospects for human progress and flourishing are intrinsically linked to the quality of care provided to those who require it, highlighting the pivotal role of care in shaping individuals and societies. Furthermore, it asserts that the ethics of care places significant moral emphasis on the obligation to meet the needs of those who are dependent, emphasizing the ethical imperative to respond to vulnerability and dependency with compassion and responsibility. The statement articulates the essential nature of care for all individuals, especially during their formative years, suggesting that care is indispensable for personal development and societal advancement.

    5. The ethics of care is sometimes seen as a potential moral theory to be substituted for such dominant moral theories as Kantian ethics, utilitarianism, or Aristotelian virtue ethics. It is sometimes seen as a form of virtue ethics. It is almost always developed as emphasizing neglected moral considerations of at least as much importance as the considerations central to moralities of justice and rights or of utility and preference satisfaction.

      The statement suggests that the ethics of care is occasionally regarded as a viable alternative to established moral theories like Kantian ethics, utilitarianism, or Aristotelian virtue ethics. Furthermore, it posits that the ethics of care is often viewed as a subset or variation of virtue ethics. Additionally, it emphasizes the unique focus of the ethics of care on moral considerations that are frequently overlooked in other moral frameworks, asserting their significance as being on par with, if not surpassing, the considerations typically central to justice-based or utility-based moralities. The statement outlines the perception of the ethics of care as a potential substitute for traditional moral theories such as Kantian ethics, utilitarianism, or Aristotelian virtue ethics, indicating its perceived relevance in contemporary moral discourse.

    6. The ethics of care is only a few decades old.[1] Some theorists do not like the term ‘care’ to designate this approach to moral issues and have tried substituting ‘the ethic of love,’ or ‘relational ethics,’ but the discourse keeps returning to ‘care’ as the so far more satisfactory of the terms considered, though dissatisfactions with it remain.

      The statement highlights the relatively recent emergence of the ethics of care, which has gained prominence in moral philosophy over the past few decades. While some scholars have attempted to replace the term "care" with alternatives such as "the ethic of love" or "relational ethics," the discourse consistently gravitates back to "care" as the most preferred term, despite lingering dissatisfactions with it. The assertion underscores the novelty of the ethics of care within the realm of moral philosophy, indicating its emergence within the past few decades.

    1. The first can undoubtedly often be the case. I see very well that it is not enough to get out of a present difficulty by means of this subterfuge but that I must reflect carefully whether this lie may later give rise to much greater inconvenience for me than that from which I now extricate myself; and since, with all my supposed cunning, the results cannot be so easily foreseen but that once confidence in me is lost this could be far more prejudicial to me than all the troubles I now think to avoid,

      The passage underscores the complexity of ethical decision-making, particularly when faced with dilemmas that seem to offer immediate solutions through deception or dishonesty. It highlights the importance of considering the potential long-term consequences of one's actions and the broader impact on personal integrity and reputation.

      In response, it is essential to recognize that ethical dilemmas often require careful deliberation and reflection. While it may seem tempting to resort to deception to escape present difficulties, such actions can have far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the immediate situation. As the passage suggests, the repercussions of dishonesty may lead to a loss of trust and credibility, which can be more detrimental in the long run than the initial troubles being avoided.

    2. To be beneficent where one can is a duty, and besides there are many souls so sympathetically attuned that, without any other motive of vanity or self-interest they find an inner satisfaction in spreading joy around them and can take delight in the satisfaction of others so far as it is their own work.

      The passage asserts that beneficence, or the act of doing good where one can, is a moral duty. It suggests that individuals have an obligation to extend kindness and assistance to others whenever possible, reflecting a commitment to ethical conduct and social responsibility. It acknowledges the existence of individuals who derive intrinsic satisfaction from spreading joy and contributing to the well-being of others. These individuals are described as having souls that are "sympathetically attuned," indicating a natural inclination towards compassion and altruism.

    3. n order to do so, we shall set before ourselves the concept of duty, which contains that of a good will though under certain subjective limita­tions and hindrances, which, however, far from concealing it and making it unrecognizable, rather bring it out by contrast and make it shine forth all the more brightly.

      The passage eloquently articulates the relationship between duty, a good will, and the subjective challenges inherent in moral decision-making. Duty serves as a guiding principle that embodies the concept of a good will, representing a commitment to moral obligations and ethical principles.

      While individuals may encounter subjective limitations and hindrances in fulfilling their duties, these challenges do not diminish the inherent goodness of their will. On the contrary, adversity serves to illuminate the moral character of the individual, highlighting their steadfast commitment to ethical conduct despite obstacles.

    4. Moderation in affects and passions, self-control, and calm reflection are not only good for all sorts of purposes but even seem to constitute a part of the inner worth of a person; but they lack much that would be required to declare them good without limitation

      The author highlights the virtues of moderation in affects and passions, self-control, and calm reflection,The passage underscores the importance of virtues such as moderation, self-control, and calm reflection in shaping an individual's character and conduct. These qualities are indeed valuable for promoting personal well-being and ethical behavior, as they contribute to inner harmony and social equilibrium. suggesting that these qualities contribute positively to an individual's character and conduct.

    5. It is the same with gifts of fortune. Power, riches, honor, even health and that complete well-being and satisfaction with one’s condition called happiness, produce boldness and thereby often arrogance as well unless a good will is present which corrects the influence of these on the mind and, in so doing, also corrects the whole principle of action and brings it into conformity with universal ends-not to mention that an impartial rational spectator can take no delight in seeing the uninterrupted prosperity of a being graced with no feature of a pure and good will, so that a good will seems to constitute the indispensable condition even of worthiness to be happy.

      Overall, the passage underscores the ethical imperative of cultivating a good will as a prerequisite for genuine happiness and moral worthiness, regardless of external circumstances. It suggests that true fulfillment and virtue stem not from external achievements alone, but from an inner commitment to moral goodness and ethical principles.

    1. The lack of an identifiable victim is of no moral significance, though it may play an important role in explaining our attitudes. The idea that we are directly responsible for those we kill, but not for those we do not help, depends on a questionable notion of responsibility and may need to be based on a controversial theory of rights.

      The assertion that the absence of an identifiable victim carries no moral weight challenges conventional understandings of responsibility, which often hinge on direct causal relationships between actions and their consequences. This nuanced perspective invites us to consider the broader implications of our actions and inactions, particularly in situations where individuals may suffer harm or deprivation without a clear victim-perpetrator dynamic.

    2. First, the motivation will normally be different. Those who deliberately shoot others go out of their way to kill; they presumably want their victims dead, from malice, sadism, or some equally unpleasant motive.

      The motivation behind intentional shootings is often driven by malicious or sadistic intent, as individuals deliberately seek to cause harm or death to their victims. We can work towards creating safer and more resilient communities where such tragic incidents are less likely to occur.

    3. Yet it is clear that this wealth exists. Against the picture of absolute poverty

      Recognizing this disparity prompts us to reflect on the systemic factors that perpetuate poverty and inequality, including unequal access to resources, discriminatory practices, and structural barriers to social and economic mobility. Addressing these root causes requires collective action and a commitment to promoting equity, justice, and human dignity for all members of society.

    4. lack of food is not the only hardship of the poor.

      An important aspect of poverty that often goes overlooked. It is indeed true that lack of food is just one of the many hardships faced by individuals living in poverty. Economic insecurity, limited access to healthcare, inadequate educational opportunities, and social exclusion are among the myriad challenges that exacerbate the plight of the poor.

    5. 00 million people lack the calories, protein, vitamins and minerals needed to sustain their bodies and minds in a healthy state. Millions are constantly hungry; others suffer from deficiency diseases and from infections they would be able to resist on a better diet. Children are the worst affected.

      It is imperative that we acknowledge the severity of this global challenge and take decisive steps to address it. Malnutrition not only undermines the health and well-being of individuals but also hampers socio-economic development and perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality. Every child deprived of adequate nutrition is robbed of the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential, perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage that can span generations.

    1. A man will be a grammarian, then, only when he has both done something grammatical and done it grammatically; and this means doing it in accordance with the grammatical knowledge in himself.

      The essence of being a grammarian transcends mere theoretical knowledge; it necessitates practical application aligned with that knowledge. To truly embody the role of a grammarian, one must not only engage in grammatical activities but also execute them correctly, adhering to the principles and understanding of grammar. In essence, being a grammarian requires the integration of grammatical knowledge with practical proficiency.

    2. These are not reckoned in as conditions of the possession of the arts, except the bare knowledge; but as a condition of the possession of the virtues knowledge has little but for everything, i.e., the very conditions which result from often doing just and temperate acts.

      These are not reckoned in as conditions of the possession of the arts, except the bare knowledge; but as a condition of the possession of the virtues knowledge has little but for everything, i.e., the very conditions which result from often doing just and temperate acts.

    3. From the point of view of self-sufficiency the same result seems to follow; for the final good is though to be self-sufficient. Now by self-sufficient we do not mean that which is sufficient for man by himself, for one who lives a solitary life, but also for parents, children, wife, and in general for his friends and fellow citizens, since man is born for citizenship

      . The ultimate good is perceived to be self-sufficient, meaning it fulfills one's needs comprehensively. However, this concept extends beyond mere individual satisfaction. It encompasses provisions not only for oneself but also for the broader network of relationships one engages in, including family, friends, and fellow citizens. This notion reflects the intrinsic social nature of humanity, where individuals are inherently linked to the collective fabric of society.

    4. A consideration of the prominent types of life shows that people of superior refinement and of active disposition identify happiness with honour; for this is, roughly speaking, the end of the political life.

      Individuals of refined and active disposition tend to equate happiness with honor, particularly within the framework of political life, where honor is regarded as a central pursuit or goal.

    5. Where there are ends apart from the actions, it is the nature of the products to be better than the activities.  Now, as there are many actions, arts, and sciences, their ends also are many; the end of the medical art is health, that of shipbuilding a vessel, that of strategy victory that of economics, wealth.  B

      In summary, the passage discusses how different actions and disciplines have distinct goals or ends, emphasizing that the outcomes or products resulting from these actions are typically more significant than the actions themselves.

  2. Feb 2024
    1. Those who accept this line of reasoning will reject as either meaningless or insoluble the problem of cor­rectly locating the line where duty leaves off and aspiration begins.

      I totally agree. Those who adhere to this line of reasoning will dismiss the problem of delineating the boundary between duty and aspiration as either devoid of significance or inherently unsolvable.

    2. The law of contracts declares void agreements entered under a mutual misapprehension of the relevant facts. Under the law of torts a man may become active without having to answer for injuries that are the fortuitous by-product of his actions, except where he enters upon some enterprise causing foreseeable risks that may be reckoned as an actuarial cost of his undertaking and thus subjected to rational calculation in advance. In the early stages of the law, none of these principles was recognized.

      The law of contracts renders agreements void if they are based on a mutual misunderstanding of pertinent facts. In tort law, individuals may not be held accountable for injuries resulting from incidental consequences of their actions, unless they willingly engage in ventures carrying foreseeable risks, which can be anticipated and quantified beforehand as part of their calculated liabilities. Initially, none of these principles were acknowledged in the nascent stages of legal development.

    3. If our hypothetical moral legislator had gone to the school of Jeremy Bentham and the later marginal utility economists, he might find good reasons for declaring gambling intrinsically harm­ful and not merely harmful because of its indirect consequences.

      This statement suggests that a moral legislator, educated in the philosophies of Jeremy Bentham and subsequent economists who developed the theory of marginal utility, might discern intrinsic harm in gambling. It posits that, drawing from utilitarian principles and considering the direct impact on individuals' well-being, there could be compelling grounds for deeming gambling inherently detrimental, beyond its indirect societal consequences.

    4. Where the morality of aspiration starts at the top of human achievement, the morality of duty starts at the bottom. It lays down the basic rules without which an ordered society is impossible, or without which an ordered society directed toward certain specific goals must fail of its mark.

      This statement elucidates a fundamental contrast between the moral principles of aspiration and duty. While aspiration emphasizes reaching the pinnacle of human excellence, duty centers on establishing foundational norms essential for societal order and the pursuit of collective objectives. It underscores duty's role in providing the necessary framework for a functioning society, ensuring adherence to basic rules and facilitating progress toward predefined objectives.

    5. The morality of aspiration is most plainly exemplified in Greek philosophy. It is the morality of the Good Life, of excellence, of the fullest realization of human powers.

      This statement underscores the moral philosophy prevalent in Greek thought, emphasizing the pursuit of the "Good Life" as characterized by excellence and the complete fulfillment of human potential. It highlights Greek philosophy's focus on virtuous living and the cultivation of individual capacities to their utmost extent.

    6. f you can think about something that is related to something else without thinking about the thing to which it is related, then you have the legal mind.

      I agree with this statement. A hallmark of the legal mind is the capacity to draw associative connections between concepts or circumstances without being directly influenced by the context in which they arise. This ability to discern abstract relationships fosters critical analysis, strategic thinking, and the formulation of reasoned arguments within the legal profession.

    1. And what sort of difference creates enmity and anger? Suppose for example that you and I, my good friend, differ about a number; do differences of this sort make us enemies and set us at variance with one another? Do we not go at once to arithmetic, and put an end to them by a sum?

      "Socrates employs a hypothetical scenario to explore the nature of enmity and anger arising from differences of opinion. He suggests that disagreements over factual matters, such as numbers, can be resolved through logical reasoning, emphasizing the role of rational discourse in resolving conflicts and avoiding animosity."

    2. I dare say; and you shall tell me them at some other time when I have leisure. But just at present I would rather hear from you a more precise answer, which you have not as yet given, my friend, to the question, What is ‘piety’? When asked, you only replied, Doing as you do, charging your father with murder.

      "Socrates deflects Euthyphro's request for a definition of piety, indicating a preference to discuss it later. Euthyphro presses for a more precise answer, highlighting Socrates' previous response regarding his own actions as insufficient. This exchange underscores the ongoing dialogue between the two characters regarding the nature of piety."

    3. For I observe that no one appears to notice you–not even this Meletus; but his sharp eyes have found me out at once, and he has indicted me for impiety. And therefore, I adjure you to tell me the nature of piety and impiety, which you said that you knew so well, and of murder, and of other offences against the gods. What are they? Is not piety in every action always the same?

      "Euthyphro questions Socrates about the concepts of piety and impiety, noting his own indictment by Meletus while Socrates remains unnoticed. He seeks clarification on the nature of these concepts and their consistency across different actions, implying a desire for a clear definition to guide his own understanding and defense."

    4. Rare friend! I think that I cannot do better than be your disciple. Then before the trial with Meletus comes on I shall challenge him, and say that I have always had a great interest in religious questions, and now, as he charges me with rash imaginations and innovations in religion, I have become your disciple.

      A professional annotation for this passage could be:

      "Euthyphro expresses admiration for Socrates and declares his intent to align himself with Socrates' teachings. He plans to present himself as Socrates' disciple to counter Meletus' accusations of religious impropriety, thus leveraging Socrates' reputation and philosophical stance in his own defense."

    5. Meanwhile he never attended to him and took no care about him, for he regarded him as a murderer; and thought that no great harm would be done even if he did die. Now this was just what happened.

      "Euthyphro describes how his father neglected a servant in need, viewing him as a criminal deserving of little care. Euthyphro suggests that his father's disregard for the servant ultimately led to the servant's death, aligning with his father's indifferent attitude towards him."

    6. I dare say that the affair will end in nothing, Socrates, and that you will win your cause; and I think that I shall win my own.

      "Euthyphro expresses confidence in the outcome of Socrates' legal case, predicting a favorable result for him. Additionally, he asserts his own optimism regarding the resolution of his own matter, implying a belief in his own success."

    7. A young man who is little known, Euthyphro; and I hardly know him: his name is Meletus, and he is of the deme of Pitthis. Perhaps you may remember his appearance; he has a beak, and long straight hair, and a beard which is ill grown.

      "Euthyphro introduces a lesser-known individual, Meletus, whose appearance he vaguely recalls. Meletus is identified as being from the deme of Pitthis. Euthyphro's description highlights Meletus' distinctive features, including a prominent nose ('beak'), long, unkempt hair, and an unevenly grown beard."

    1. force myself to consider the likelihood that everyone else in the supermarket’s checkout line is just as bored and frustrated as I am, and that some of these people probably have harder, more tedious and painful lives than I do.

      This reflection demonstrates a commendable level of empathy and self-awareness. It's a powerful reminder that in moments of frustration or boredom, considering the experiences of others around us can provide valuable perspective. Recognizing that many individuals may be facing challenges far greater than our own helps cultivate empathy and gratitude, fostering a deeper understanding of the diverse realities people navigate daily. Your willingness to acknowledge this broader perspective speaks volumes about your capacity for empathy and compassion.

    2. If you worship money and things, if they are where you tap real meaning in life, then you will never have enough, never feel you have enough. It’s the truth.

      This statement highlights the potential pitfalls of placing excessive value on material wealth and possessions as sources of fulfillment and purpose in life. It suggests that an overemphasis on the accumulation of wealth can lead to a perpetual cycle of dissatisfaction and an insatiable desire for more, ultimately hindering the attainment of genuine contentment and fulfillment.

    3. The freedom all to be lords of our tiny skull-sized kingdoms, alone at the center of all creation. This kind of freedom has much to recommend it. But of course there are all different kinds of freedom, and the kind that is most precious you will not hear much talked about much in the great outside world of wanting and achieving

      This observation offers a profound insight into the complexity of freedom, highlighting its various dimensions and nuances. While the notion of being the sole ruler of our individual realms is enticing, it's equally essential to recognize that there exists a deeper, less heralded form of freedom—one that transcends mere autonomy and is seldom discussed amidst the clamor of external pursuits and ambitions.

    4. If your total freedom of choice regarding what to think about seems too obvious to waste time discussing, I’d ask you to think about fish and water,

      This perspective offers a valuable insight into the matter at hand.

    5. ou tend to feel a bit insulted by the claim that you needed anybody to teach you how to think, since the fact that you even got admitted to a college this good seems like proof that you already know how to think.

      I deeply empathize with the sentiment expressed in the quote as it resonates profoundly with my personal experience. On a daily basis, I grapple with the pervasive notion that investing in college education might not always yield the anticipated returns, particularly in today's digital age where virtually limitless resources are available online. The accessibility and breadth of knowledge accessible through platforms like YouTube indeed challenge the traditional notions of formal education.

      While I harbor a genuine passion for learning and recognize the immense value education brings, I frequently find myself wrestling with the weight of academic deadlines, which can feel overwhelming and at odds with the inherent joy of acquiring knowledge. This internal conflict between the allure of self-directed learning and the rigidity of institutional requirements is a constant presence in my educational journey.

    6. Of course, none of this is likely, but it’s also not impossible. It just depends what you want to consider. If you’re automatically sure that you know what reality is, and you are operating on your default setting, then you, like me, probably won’t consider possibilities that aren’t annoying and miserable. But if you really learn how to think, how to pay attention, then you will know there are other options.

      The responder acknowledges the speaker's contemplation on the likelihood and possibilities of certain scenarios, expressing appreciation for the nuanced perspective shared. The annotation highlights the speaker's recognition that personal considerations and default settings can impact one's perception of reality. The responder notes the emphasis on self-awareness and the encouragement to develop critical thinking and attentiveness, underlining the potential for broadening perspectives beyond automatic assumptions. The annotation captures the essence of the speaker's message, emphasizing the value of a mindful approach to considering various possibilities.

    7. This is not a matter of virtue. It’s a matter of my choosing to do the work of somehow altering or getting free of my natural, hard-wired default setting which is to be deeply and literally self-centered and to see and interpret everything through this lens of self. People who can adjust their natural default setting this way are often described as being “well-adjusted”, which I suggest to you is not an accidental term.

      The responder acknowledges the speaker's perspective on the matter, recognizing the challenge as a conscious choice to alter the default setting. The responder appreciates the acknowledgment of the inherent self-centered nature and the intentional effort required to overcome it. The annotation captures the significance of the term "well-adjusted" in the context of actively working to shift the default setting, implying a deliberate and purposeful process. The responder notes the speaker's insight into the transformative nature of choosing to interpret the world beyond the lens of self-centeredness, suggesting a pathway to personal growth and adaptability.

    8. the atheist says: “Look, it’s not like I don’t have actual reasons for not believing in God. It’s not like I haven’t ever experimented with the whole God and prayer thing.

      The responder acknowledges the speaker's statement about being an atheist and appreciates their openness and willingness to share their perspective. The responder expresses curiosity about the speaker's experiences and reasons for not believing in God, inviting further dialogue. The annotation captures the responder's respectful and inquisitive approach to understanding the atheist's viewpoint, emphasizing the potential for enriching conversation and mutual understanding.

    9. They’re the kind of worship you just gradually slip into, day after day, getting more and more selective about what you see and how you measure value without ever being fully aware that that’s what you’re doing.

      The speaker introduces the concept of a subtle and gradual immersion into certain habits, describing them as a form of worship. This notion suggests a subconscious evolution in one's values and perspectives. The speaker highlights the insidious nature of this process, emphasizing the lack of conscious awareness as individuals become increasingly discerning in their perceptions and judgments. The annotation captures the speaker's intention to draw attention to the subtle transformation in one's mindset and the unobtrusive nature of habitual behaviors that shape individual values.

    10. I know that this stuff probably doesn’t sound fun and breezy or grandly inspirational the way a commencement speech is supposed to sound. What it is, as far as I can see, is the capital-T Truth, with a whole lot of rhetorical niceties stripped away. You are, of course, free to think of it whatever you wish. But please don’t just dismiss it as just some finger-wagging Dr Laura sermon. None of this stuff is really about morality or religion or dogma or big fancy questions of life after death.

      The speaker adopts a straightforward and sincere tone, acknowledging the unconventional nature of their message. They emphasize a departure from the usual inspirational rhetoric and highlight the importance of recognizing the unadorned truth. The speaker urges the audience not to dismiss their words as mere moralistic or religious sermons, emphasizing that the content is not centered around conventional questions of morality, religion, or the metaphysical. The annotation captures the speaker's intent to strip away rhetorical niceties and engage the audience in a more direct and honest conversation.