Figs in Winter
Oct 27, 2020

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Utilitarians act on the basis of what they think is a universal calculus of goodness. Stoics act on the basis of their own assessment of what is or is not virtuous. Sometimes the results are the same, at other times they may differ. Also, I think the utilitarian calculus is ultimately unworkable. We just never have enough information about the global long-term consequences of our actions. That’s why an emphasis on intentions, rather than outcomes, is preferable.

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Figs in Winter
Figs in Winter

Written by Figs in Winter

by Massimo Pigliucci, a scientist, philosopher, and Professor at the City College of New York. Exploring and practicing Stoicism & other philosophies of life.

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