NOTE:Questions regarding the Divine Command Theory will not be on the exam this Thurs.
Rand's Egoism:
-Individualism
-non-conformity
-excellence, greatness, achievement
-integrity: not compromising your principles
-cooperation vs. compromise
Altruism: doing for the sake of others (usually involving self-sacrifice) Howard Roark calls this slavery. He says that it is unfulfilling and morally wrong.
People who trumpet altruism are looking to enslave and control others (egoist view)
"Why People Believe Weird Things" by Michael Shermer talks about Ayn Rand's cultish following among other interesting topics. According to the professor Rand has a myopic view of religion.
Gyges' Ring (The Republic):
Glaucon says that a morally right person would behave the same as a morally wrong with the rings power. Why be moral? Fear of punishment is the only reason. But, punishment depends on detection or getting caught. It would be irrational not to steal, seize power, etc.
Why be conventionally moral?
1. God or Karma
Reply: Prove there is a God. This is a superstition meant to control the masses.
2. Guilt, self-image
Reply: Guilt is social programming which can be overcome.
3. self-interest
4. Because you should: this reason seems circular.
Pg. 551 Pojman...
Arguments for Egoism
1. We can satisfy our desires best.
2. Helping others is an invasion of their privacy and freedom.
3. Charity is degrading to the recipient and enables failure.
Arguments Against Egoism
1. Some people want help and are thankful
2. Assumes utilitarian view of maximizing happiness through individualism.
3. Publicity requirement- you have to be a closet egoist
OTHER STUFF THAT WE HAVEN'T DISCUSSED THAT WILL BE ON THE TEST: Social contract theory, sovereign "state of nature", moral=legal