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THE ETHICS OF BENIGN SELFISHNESS
THE ETHICS OF BENIGN SELFISHNESS

Author(s): Tibor R. Machan
Subject(s): Philosophy
Published by: Addleton Academic Publishers
Keywords: egoism; ethics; selfishness; altruism; self-interest; prudence

Summary/Abstract: In this paper I defend ethical egoism, calling it “benign” so as to ward off those who insist on characterizing this ethical school as heartless and even mean. I draw on the Aristotelian ethical tradition wherein the virtue of prudence is paramount. Socratic self perfection, too, helps in understanding this position. I explore various facets of benign egoism, contrast it with “economic man,” etc. In the end what I sketch is a reasonable account human morality in which self-sacrifice, except in very rare cases, is rejected as unethical!

  • Issue Year: V/2013
  • Issue No: 2
  • Page Range: 11-38
  • Page Count: 28
  • Language: English
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