Loving oneself and loving others | Carol Gilligan, Katarzyna de Lazari-Radek, Richard Wrangham
Jun 20, 2024
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Renowned experts Carol Gilligan, Katarzyna de Lazari-Radek, and Richard Wrangham debate the dangers of altruism. They discuss the negative consequences of unchecked selflessness, question the binary view of self-interest versus benefiting others, and explore the importance of cultivating good relationships for a better future.
Altruism should be reevaluated through care ethics, emphasizing the importance of interconnected relationships.
Combining utilitarianism with personal care ethics can optimize altruistic efforts on both personal and societal levels.
Deep dives
Importance of reframing altruism in terms of care ethics
Altruism can be reframed in terms of care ethics, emphasizing the importance of living in connection with oneself and others. The focus should be on relationships and paying attention to the interdependence and connections that define human life. Instead of viewing altruism as selfless acts detached from self-interest, the discussion highlights the need to include oneself in the cycle of care and attention to foster responsible and meaningful relationships.
Effectiveness of utilitarianism and personal ethics in altruistic efforts
Utilitarianism, emphasizing the maximization of overall well-being, can be complemented by personal ethics that promote care and mutual well-being. While utilitarianism calculates actions based on consequences, the personal care ethics approach underscores the importance of developing relationships and valuing interconnectedness. By combining these approaches, individuals can optimize altruistic efforts at both personal and broader scales.
The need for a strong theory of altruism considering variability and enforcement
A strong theory of altruism is essential to address the varied tendencies individuals exhibit towards altruism. While altruistic behaviors can lead to positive outcomes and reputational benefits, there is a necessity for enforcing altruistic norms to prevent exploitation. Understanding the inherent variability in altruistic behaviors and ensuring consequences for non-compliance play crucial roles in fostering a more altruistic society.
Promoting empathy among all sentient beings for global altruism
The importance of extending altruism to all sentient beings, including those capable of experiencing pain and pleasure, holds significant ethical weight. By acknowledging the sentience of other creatures and their capacity for well-being, a broader sense of moral responsibility emerges. Fostering empathy and considering the interests of all beings can lead to more ethical and compassionate behaviors, prioritizing the well-being of all creatures.
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From charity-givers, to those who sacrifice themselves in war for others, we see altrusim and selflessness as virtues to be applauded. Those who take no heed of their own interests are highly praised in Western culture. But many point to a danger. Studies show that altruism gone awry leads to tolerating abusive partners, eating disorders and depression. And critics argue that some of history's most horrific episodes rose from appeals to altruistic tendencies. Forced sterlizations in the West were justified as "better for all the world". Should we see unhampered altruism not only as futile, but actively dangerous?
Join Professor of Humanities and Applied Psychology at New York University, Carol Gilligan, feminist icon and Professor of Philosophy at the University of Lodz, Katarzyna de Lazari-Radek, and Research Professor of Biological Anthropology at Harvard University, Richard Wrangham as they debate the dangers of altruism. Robert Lawrence Kuhn hosts.
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