Background of Gem Anscombe
Elizabeth Anscombe was born in 1919 in Limerick, Ireland, and later moved to England, where she studied at Oxford University. She was a student of the prominent philosopher G.E.M. Anscombe and became one of the first women to be awarded a degree in philosophy at Oxford. Throughout her academic career, Anscombe was known for her rigorous approach to philosophical inquiry and her deep commitment to ethical issues.
Major Influences
Anscombe's philosophical views were shaped by several key influences:
1. Aristotelian Ethics: Anscombe was profoundly influenced by Aristotle, particularly his concept of virtue ethics, which emphasizes character and moral virtues rather than rules or consequences in ethical decision-making.
2. Aquinas and Natural Law: She engaged deeply with Thomistic philosophy and the natural law tradition, arguing for the importance of human nature in understanding moral obligations.
3. Wittgenstein's Philosophy: Anscombe also studied the works of Ludwig Wittgenstein, which influenced her views on language and its role in moral philosophy.
Critique of Modern Moral Philosophy
In her 1958 paper, Anscombe argued that modern moral philosophy had lost its way. She identified several key issues within contemporary ethical theories:
1. The Disconnect from Moral Realism
Anscombe critiqued the prevailing moral theories, particularly those that relied on utilitarianism and deontological ethics, for their lack of grounding in objective moral truths. She argued that moral philosophy must reconnect with the notion of moral realism, the idea that there are objective moral facts that exist independently of individual beliefs or societal norms.
2. The Consequentialist Approach
One of Anscombe's primary objections to modern moral philosophy was its heavy reliance on consequentialism, particularly utilitarianism. She argued that such theories reduce morality to a calculation of outcomes, ignoring the importance of intentions and the moral character of individuals. For Anscombe, this approach undermined the richness of moral experience and the complexity of human action.
3. The Problem of Intention
In her paper, Anscombe emphasized the significance of intention in moral philosophy. She posited that understanding the intentions behind actions is crucial for assessing their moral worth. This focus on intention reflects her Aristotelian roots and her belief that ethical evaluation cannot be reduced to mere actions or outcomes.
The Role of Virtue Ethics
Anscombe's critiques led her to advocate for a return to virtue ethics, a framework rooted in Aristotelian philosophy. She argued that virtue ethics offers a more comprehensive understanding of morality by focusing on the character and intentions of moral agents.
Key Elements of Virtue Ethics
1. Emphasis on Character: Virtue ethics centers on the moral character of individuals, positing that moral actions stem from virtuous dispositions rather than abstract rules or consequences.
2. Moral Development: Virtue ethics emphasizes the importance of moral development, portraying ethical living as a process of cultivating virtues over time.
3. Integration of Intention: By prioritizing intention, virtue ethics aligns closely with Anscombe's critique of consequentialism, as it acknowledges the significance of the moral agent's motivations in ethical decision-making.
Implications of Anscombe's Work
Anscombe's contributions to modern moral philosophy have far-reaching implications for contemporary ethical discourse. Her critiques and advocacy for virtue ethics challenge philosophers to reassess the foundations of moral theories and consider the complexities of human action.
1. Reinvigorating Moral Philosophy
Anscombe's work has encouraged a resurgence of interest in virtue ethics within philosophical circles. Many contemporary philosophers have revisited Aristotelian ethics, exploring how virtue can inform moral reasoning in various contexts, including bioethics, political philosophy, and applied ethics.
2. Interdisciplinary Dialogue
Anscombe's emphasis on intention and character has fostered cross-disciplinary dialogue between philosophy, psychology, and theology. Her insights have prompted scholars to examine the interplay between moral philosophy and human psychology, particularly in understanding moral decision-making and the development of character.
3. Ethical Education
Anscombe's work has implications for ethical education, emphasizing the importance of cultivating moral character in individuals rather than merely imparting ethical rules. This perspective encourages educators to foster environments that promote ethical reflection and character development.
Conclusion
Gem Anscombe's modern moral philosophy stands as a critical response to the challenges posed by contemporary ethical theories. By highlighting the importance of intention, character, and the need for a robust moral framework, Anscombe has paved the way for a revitalization of virtue ethics in modern moral discourse. Her work serves as a reminder that ethics is not merely a set of rules or calculations but a deeply human endeavor rooted in our intentions and aspirations for moral living. As philosophers and ethicists continue to grapple with the complexities of morality, Anscombe's insights remain a vital touchstone for understanding the nature of ethical reasoning and the role of virtue in our lives. Through her legacy, Anscombe has not only enriched philosophical scholarship but has also provided a pathway for a more nuanced and humane approach to moral philosophy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main thesis of G.E.M. Anscombe's essay 'Modern Moral Philosophy'?
Anscombe argues that modern moral philosophy is in crisis due to its reliance on consequentialism and deontological ethics, which she believes lack a solid foundation in the concept of moral obligation and virtue. She calls for a return to Aristotelian ethics and the importance of character and virtue.
How does Anscombe critique the concept of 'moral obligation' in modern moral philosophy?
Anscombe critiques the notion of 'moral obligation' by suggesting that it is disconnected from a proper understanding of human action and intention. She argues that without a robust understanding of moral psychology, the concept becomes meaningless, as seen in the absence of a divine law or moral lawgiver.
What role does virtue ethics play in Anscombe's philosophy?
Virtue ethics is central to Anscombe's philosophy as she emphasizes the importance of character and virtues over rules or consequences. She advocates for a moral framework that focuses on the moral agent's intentions and virtues, rather than merely assessing actions by their outcomes.
In what ways did Anscombe influence contemporary moral philosophy?
Anscombe's work has significantly influenced contemporary moral philosophy by reviving interest in virtue ethics and challenging the dominance of consequentialism and deontology. Her call to reconnect ethics with human psychology and social practices has prompted a re-examination of moral theories.
What is the significance of the term 'moral philosophy' in Anscombe's work?
In Anscombe's work, 'moral philosophy' signifies a discipline that should not only analyze ethical theories but also incorporate the study of human behavior and intentions. She argues for a comprehensive approach that considers the complexities of moral life beyond abstract principles.
How does Anscombe address the issue of moral relativism in her essay?
Anscombe addresses moral relativism by critiquing the lack of objective moral standards in modern ethical theories. She contends that without a grounding in virtue and a shared understanding of human flourishing, moral claims can become subjective and arbitrary, leading to relativism.
