Clearer Thinking with Spencer Greenberg A philosophical theory of jerks (with Eric Schwitzgebel)
Jun 1, 2022
Eric Schwitzgebel, a philosophy professor at UC Riverside and author of 'A Theory of Jerks,' explores the fascinating interplay between ethics and behavior. He examines whether thinking about ethics leads to moral action and how ethicists measure up in real-life situations. The conversation uncovers why we react negatively to overly moral individuals and categorizes different types of 'jerks.' Schwitzgebel also discusses the gap between our ethical beliefs and actions, emphasizing self-reflection and the complexity of human moral judgments.
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Ethics and Behavior
- Studying ethics may not significantly improve behavior.
- Ethicists often act similarly to their social group, not necessarily more ethically.
Bentham's Influence
- Spencer Greenberg became vegetarian after reading Jeremy Bentham in high school.
- Bentham's focus on animal suffering resonated with him, prompting the change.
Toxic Rationalization
- Ethics might enable rationalizing desired actions rather than changing behavior.
- Skilled ethicists can justify actions using various moral frameworks, potentially leading to the "toxic rationalization" of unethical behavior.
