David Schmidtz, expert on the inseparability of successful communities and successful lives, discusses the moral philosophy of living apart from and with others, the importance of understanding problems before seeking solutions, Peter Singer's shallow pond thought experiment, property rights and liberalism, and recommendations for books on living together.
Successful communities and successful lives are inseparable.
Moral philosophy should consider the social and political nature of humans.
Realistic idealism values attainable solutions that address specific challenges of real-life situations.
Deep dives
The Difference Between Moral and Political Philosophy
Moral philosophy seeks to answer the question of how an individual should live, focusing on guiding principles and personal morality. On the other hand, political philosophy explores the human condition and the study of social and political interactions. It recognizes that as social and political animals, humans must cooperate and negotiate the terms of cooperation to live well. This understanding of our nature as social and political animals provides a framework for determining what is conducive to our progress and offers insights into answering the question of how we should live.
The Relationship Between Moral Philosophy and Living with Others
When discussing moral philosophy separate from living with others, one can envision a theory based solely on what is good for the self, detached from social or political considerations. However, this approach fails to account for the social and political nature of humans from the start. To be a healthy social animal is to have a fundamental interest in fitting in, being appreciated, and being visible to others in our community. This recognition of our social and political nature frames our understanding of morality and self-interest, highlighting that our social nature is not a departure from self-interest but inherent to it.
Challenges and Alternatives in Ideal Theory
Ideal theory, which posits a peak of perfect justice and requires starting from this ideal, has limitations. It fails to address the complexity and messy details of real problems. A more defensible version of ideal theory is one that begins by identifying and understanding the problem in all its nuances and details. Starting from the bottom up, it recognizes the human condition and the need for solutions that address the specific challenges of real-life situations. This approach values realistic idealism, searching for solutions that are attainable within the given context, rather than fixating on an unattainable perfection.
Peter Singer's Impact on Moral Philosophy
Peter Singer's ideas on preventing suffering and the moral obligation to help others have had a profound impact on moral philosophy. His example of saving a drowning or starving person without sacrificing a comparable amount in one's own life sparked a shift in how many people think about altruism. While Singer's views have evolved over time, his focus on maximizing utility and exploring what works in terms of relieving suffering reflects a shift towards a more realistic and nuanced approach to morality.
The Pursuit of Purpose and Moral Philosophy
David Schmidtz highlights the importance of purpose and moral philosophy. He emphasizes the need to create a meaningful and fulfilling life by having a clear purpose and striving to be admirable. Schmidtz argues that morality encompasses the personal challenge of finding purpose as well as the social dimension of building a moral community. He suggests that developing a sense of purpose is essential for individual satisfaction and for creating a society that thrives on shared values and goals.
