@fmf saidI am somewhat resistant to this idea of distilling my moral code down to a few simple principles.
If we were to define the pillars of morality, and/or the elements of the Golden Rule, as succinctly as possible ~ by which I mean in terms other than the usual 'no harm, no deceit, no coercion' formulation ~ how many would there be? I propose empathy and reciprocity. Any others?
If this could be done, the book on philosophy would have closed long ago, would it not?
@bigdoggproblem saidEuclid only had 5 elements that he used to define mathematics. Nature only has three particles that define the different types of atoms. Etc.
I am somewhat resistant to this idea of distilling my moral code down to a few simple principles.
If this could be done, the book on philosophy would have closed long ago, would it not?
Maximize Utility is one attempt at such a principle.
@bigdoggproblem saidIt's more a case of identifying and recognizing the key elements without diluting them with a proliferation of suggestions.
I am somewhat resistant to this idea of distilling my moral code down to a few simple principles.
@bigdoggproblem saidIf you wish to play a role in producing a thread that attempts to be equal to, and as prolific as, "the book on philosophy", then I will do my best to hang on to your coattails.
If this could be done, the book on philosophy would have closed long ago, would it not?
@fmf saidNo, no others.
If we were to define the pillars of morality, and/or the elements of the Golden Rule, as succinctly as possible ~ by which I mean in terms other than the usual 'no harm, no deceit, no coercion' formulation ~ how many would there be? I propose empathy and reciprocity. Any others?
तत्त्वमसि
Tát túvam asi
_()_
@athousandyoung saidI understood the concept of reduction just fine.
Euclid only had 5 elements that he used to define mathematics. Nature only has three particles that define the different types of atoms. Etc.
Maximize Utility is one attempt at such a principle.
The examples you gave are hard sciences. Those are reducible to fundamental laws.
It is not clear whether human morality is a hard science, or not. Personally, I tend to think it is not.
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@fmf saidI propose the threat of retribution as the foundation on which the pillars of morality stand. Harm and coercion turn out to be involved after all. I would add self-preservation as one of the pillars.
If we were to define the pillars of morality, and/or the elements of the Golden Rule, as succinctly as possible ~ by which I mean in terms other than the usual 'no harm, no deceit, no coercion' formulation ~ how many would there be? I propose empathy and reciprocity. Any others?
It's an interesting question. I would fail at succinctness because I would include awareness, cognition, agency (having some degree of free will and intentionality), and judgment as pillars -- leading to action, inaction, or self-restraint.