I do not see why the axiom of Prudence should not be…
“I do not see why the axiom of Prudence should not be questioned, when it conflicts with present inclination, on a ground similar to that on which Egoists refuse to admit the axiom of Rational Benevolence. If the Utilitarian has to answer the question, 'Why should I sacrifice my own happiness for the greater happiness of another?' it must surely be admissible to ask the Egoist 'Why should I sacrifice a present pleasure for a greater one in the future? Why should I concern myself about my own future feelings any more than about the feelings of other persons?'”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Sidgwick questions that utilitarianism and egoism face similar challenges when personal desire conflicts with moral duties, urging scrutiny of both axioms.
In simple terms: Both moral theories need questioning when personal desire clashes with duty.
Key Takeaway
Examine personal motives before accepting moral rules.
Themes
ethics
philosophy
conflict
morality
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- personal decisionmaking
- policy formation
- ethical debates
- psychological self‑assessment
Key Concepts
axiom
utilitarianism
egoism
rationality
Questions to Reflect On
- Do personal desires always undermine moral duties?
- Can egoism be reconciled with altruism?
A Different Perspective
The argument assumes rational consistency that may not exist in practice.