Ethics Quote by Peter Singer
“We see things like reciprocity which are fairly central to our view of ethics. But if you're talking about a set of worked-out rules on what we are supposed to do then, yes, it is a human product.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Practical Ethics by Peter Singer, 1979
Ethics is grounded in human social instincts like reciprocity, but formal moral rules are human constructions.
In simple terms: Ethics comes from human nature and our own rules.
Key Takeaway
Recognize both innate instincts and constructed norms.
Themes
ethics
reciprocity
human nature
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
ethical
reflective
When to use this quote
- policy making
- business conduct
- personal relationships
- legal frameworks
Key Concepts
social contract
moral philosophy
normative ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do innate instincts shape our moral judgments?
- When should we challenge established moral rules?
A Different Perspective
Human instincts may not cover all moral dilemmas; rules can be culturally biased.
![“Nineteen thousand children [are] dying every day. Does it really matter that we're not walking past them in the street? Does it really matter that they're far away? I don't think it does make a morally relevant difference.” quote by Peter Singer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cc1/peter-singer-1001_children_nineteen-thousand-children-are-dying-eve_33961.jpg)
