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Expected Utility And Constrained Maximization: Problems Of Compatibility, Hans Lottenbach

Hans Lottenbach

In recent attempts at deriving morality from rationality expected utility theory has played a major role. In the most prominent such attempt, Gauthier'sMorals by Agreement, a mode of maximizing utility calledconstrained maximization is defended. I want to show that constrained maximization or any similar proposal cannot be coherently supported by expected utility theory. First, I point to an important implication of that theory. Second, I discuss the question of what the place of constrained maximization in utility theory might be. Third, I argue that no matter how we answer this question, expected utility theory cannot provide the reason why a …

Hegel's Critique Of The Subjective Idealism Of Kant's Ethics, Hans Lottenbach

Hans Lottenbach

In lieu of an abstract, here is a brief excerpt of the content:

Hegel's Critique of the Subjective Idealism of Kant's Ethics SALLY S. SEDGWICK 1. In paragraph 135 of the Philosophy of Right Hegel formulates his well-known objection to the "empty formalism" of Kant's theory of morality: "[I]f the definition of duty is taken to be the absence of contradiction," he tells us, "... then no transition is possible to the specification of particular duties nor, if some such particular content for acting comes under consideration, is there any criterion in that principle for deciding whether it is or …

Monkish Virtues, Artificial Lives: On Hume's Genealogy Of Morals, Hans Lottenbach

Hans Lottenbach

No abstract provided.