Introduction to Ethics, Spring 2012
Project Two: Acting on principle
In this project you will live the golden rule (or an alternative) according to the best philosophical and spiritual interpretation of it that you can construct. Develop an interpretation of the golden rule--or an alternative moral principle, such as Kant's categorical imperative or Mill's principle of utility--that that you feel good about applying. If you prefer a different kind of moral principle, check with the instructor to confirm your concept of moral principle or to work out an agreement on your departure from that concept).
Do this in conversation with the following ideas of Kant.
Mobilize a “hardy and cheerful” attitude (see part two of the Kant text, the Metaphysics of Morals, pp. 154). Why hardy? Hardiness, toughness, or resilience is essential: as material beings living in a society where we see a lot of materialistic and selfish behavior, and we ourselves have impulses and urges that could lead us to betray our duty. It is important to be of good cheer because “a merry heart does good like a medicine”—to oneself as well as others—and otherwise we miss the joy of service. If the decision that we make has an excellent quality of attitude pervading it, and if that attitude is sustained in our course of action, then our action for good is more powerful.
Second, in the interpretation of the golden rule there is a level of moral reason that must be satisfied (this is where Kant comes in most especially). It is not enough simply to act out of sympathy or pity (which may be short-sighted, may contribute to self-pity, and fail to engage the other person’s potential for self-respect and responsible living). When you make a moral decision (or continue to carry out a moral decision you have already made) think about the meaning of the action in its more general implications.
Third, mobilize your profound respect for self and others as part of the attitude or motive (I cannot presently separate these in my thinking). What is the basis for respect? Be lucid about the variables in which Kant says lead us to respect some persons more than others. But also make sure to clarify the constants. On some level we can respect everyone equally. For Kant our basic, equal respect is based on the capacity of the human being to act on rationally self-chosen moral principles. Note also Kant’s idea of each person as a son or daughter of God (MM #47, p. 139; compare chapter 8 in The Golden Rule).
Fourth, act in a way that contributes to making our world a better place. (This idea can be found in Kant and is dominant in Mill.)
On April 2 (section 1, MWF) or Friday April 6 (section 4, TRF) turn in a five- or six-page (1250-1500 words) well written, proofread, stapled hard copy. Give an overview of your experience over the course of the project period putting the golden rule into practice. In addition, show how you satisfied each of the four required aspects (adjusted as needed to fit with your own views). If you draw on The Golden Rule for your interpretation of the rule, mention that in your experience report. The two-page Part II commentary will be from the perspective of Kant. Do remember to do your journaling as with the previous project.