The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast Ep. 369: Philippa Foot's Naturalistic Ethics (Part Two)
Jun 23, 2025
Dive into the intricacies of moral reasoning with a focus on promise-keeping and its ethical implications. Explore how moral and natural goodness intersect, with thought-provoking examples like the trolley problem. Delve into the nuances of naturalistic ethics and the differences between human and animal moral frameworks. The conversation tackles complex topics like Moore's open question argument, emphasizing the interplay between moral obligations and personal circumstances. Engage with themes of integrity, rationality, and social responsibility in ethical decision-making.
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Promise-Keeping as Human Necessity
- Human cooperative institutions like promise-keeping are essential to our species' life and identity.
- Without them, we would cease to be fully human, making morality tied to our social nature.
Photo Promise in African Fieldwork
- An academic promises a guide not to take a photo due to cultural beliefs but faces temptation when the guide sleeps.
- Despite no harm or societal consequence, promise-keeping obliges him to honor his word, showing its intrinsic moral importance.
Practical Rationality and Grounds
- Philippa Foot sees practical rationality as weighing grounds for actions rather than mere urges or motivations.
- Acting contrary to these reasoned grounds reflects a defect in practical rationality and character.
