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DudleyAndMorality 3 - 15 Apr 2009 - Main.JustinChung
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| | Dudley and Morality | | | My "gut" reaction is no. I think that relying on such abstract principles will either lead to transcendental nonsense, or perhaps worse, provide a cover for animus legislation. Any other thoughts as to the effects/justifications of morals legislation?
-- KeithEdelman - 14 Apr 2009 | |
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> | In response to Keith's question: I think in this particular case, a per se ban is fine. As pointed out, "banning" cannibalism is likely to have zero effect upon the actions of people in situations dire enough to occasion its thought. It's also unlikely to have any effect on people mentally disturbed enough to consider doing it outside of those circumstances. The rarity of its occurrence also makes it unlikely that specific people are being targeted or unfairly discriminated against. Because it actually affects so little, I see no harm in agreeing upon the fact that, as a society, we feel that eating people is always wrong.
Perhaps the purpose behind it can be seen as a unifying mechanism, just a recognition that at least we can all agree on something or a reminder that all our horrible and confusing legal mumbo jumbo has gotten something right. Separation from our primal selves or whatnot. Also, while we may all be in agreement that certain circumstances can justify almost any action, I don't think it is best idea to have that thought in people's heads all the time. Personally, I think the general idea that "If I really have to, I can do anything I want no matter what" should be kept out of sight. I'm pretty sure it'll be there when you need it.
As far as applying this to almost anything else though, I think I'd be in agreement with Keith. I can't think of anything else besides "necessary" murders that would fit into the general category, and even there there is simply not the "biological reaction" to compare it to cannibalism. Euthanasia/assisted suicide is much more common than cannibalism and likely to become more and more common soon enough. Not that the rate of occurrence is be all end all factor, but I think it plays a large part. |
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