Lecture Notes on The Elements of Moral Philosophy, Chapter 9

Introduction

• Topic: Are there absolute moral rules?
  • Defined as universal rules that apply in all circumstances.
  • Question posed: Are there rules that everyone must follow to be moral?

Section 1: Harry S. Truman and the Atomic Bombings

• Historical Context: Truman authorized the atomic bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, 1945.
  • Intention: End World War II quickly, potentially saving more lives.
  • Ethical Dilemma: Involvement of killing innocents and non-combatants.
• Philosophical Opposition: Elizabeth Anscombe
  • Against Truman’s decision; labeled it as murder.
  • Believed that intentionally killing innocents is always wrong.

Section 2: Immanuel Kant and Absolute Moral Rules

• Kant’s Philosophy:
  • Moral Rules: Absolute and universal.
  • Categorical Imperative: Actions must be universally applicable.
  • Rejects lying in any circumstance.
• Hypothetical vs. Categorical Imperatives:
  • Hypothetical: Actions taken based on desires.
  • Categorical: Actions required regardless of desires due to reason.
• Example: False promises for loans are inherently self-defeating if universalized.
• Criticism:
  • Not all lies are self-defeating; example of lying to save lives.
  • Failures in Kant's philosophy: Some lies are harmless (white lies), suggesting flaws in absolute rules.

Section 3: Conflicts Between Rules

• Moral Dilemma: Choosing between two wrongs.
• Example: WWII Dutch fishermen smuggling Jews, faced with lying or facilitating murder.
  • Peter Gitch: Denied such conflicts, relying on divine providence.
  • Reality shows conflicts do occur; absolute prohibitions are incoherent.
• Theoretical Limitations:
  • Requires pairs of absolute moral rules to create conflict.
  • Simplistic rule "Do what is right" holds limited practical value.

Section 4: Kant’s Insights

• Rationality and Morality:
  • Categorical imperative binds rational agents due to their rationality.
  • Rejection of such principles indicates irrationality and immorality.
• Universality in Moral Law:
  • Reasons for actions should apply universally.
  • Consistency required across similar circumstances.
• Application:
  • Dutch fishermen: Universal acceptance of lying to save lives.
• President Truman’s Options:
  • Alternatives to bombing: Demonstrative bombing in unpopulated areas or halting the war.

Conclusion

• Reflection: Consideration of moral absolutes and their real-world application.
• Further Discussion: Potential options and moral choices in historical context.