Introduction to Gem Anscombe
Elizabeth Anscombe (1919-2001) was a prominent philosopher known for her profound insights into ethics, philosophy of action, and philosophy of language. A student of Ludwig Wittgenstein, Anscombe's intellectual lineage heavily influenced her approach to philosophical questions. Her most famous work, "Modern Moral Philosophy," published in 1958, is a critical examination of the state of moral philosophy in the modern era.
Key Contributions of Anscombe to Modern Moral Philosophy
Anscombe's contributions can be categorized into several key themes:
1. Critique of Consequentialism
One of Anscombe's most significant critiques is directed at consequentialist theories, which judge the morality of actions based on their outcomes. In "Modern Moral Philosophy," she argues that such approaches are fundamentally flawed because they lack a coherent understanding of moral obligation and intention.
- Moral Context: Anscombe emphasizes that moral actions cannot be assessed solely on outcomes; the intention behind an action plays a crucial role in determining its moral worth.
- Example of Consequentialism: She critiques the idea that a morally right action is one that maximizes overall good, highlighting the potential for such reasoning to justify immoral acts if they lead to perceived benefits.
2. The Importance of Intention in Moral Philosophy
Anscombe posits that understanding an action requires examining the agent's intention. She argues that intentions are integral to moral assessment and cannot be divorced from the actions themselves.
- Moral Agency: Anscombe argues that moral agents must be recognized as beings capable of intention and reasoning. This perspective challenges the idea that humans can be reduced to mere calculators of outcomes.
- Practical Ethics: By focusing on intentions, Anscombe's approach encourages a more nuanced understanding of ethical behavior, where the agent's motivations are considered alongside the act itself.
3. Reviving Virtue Ethics
In contrast to the dominant utilitarian and deontological frameworks, Anscombe's work contributed to the revival of virtue ethics. She advocates for an ethical framework that emphasizes character and the virtues that shape moral behavior.
- Character over Consequence: Anscombe argues that ethics should focus on what it means to be a good person, rather than merely evaluating the morality of specific actions based on their outcomes.
- Influence on Later Thinkers: Her emphasis on virtue ethics paved the way for philosophers like Alasdair MacIntyre and Philippa Foot, who expanded on her ideas in their own works.
Key Works and Ideas
Anscombe's philosophical contributions extend beyond "Modern Moral Philosophy." Other notable works include:
1. "Intention" (1957)
In this book, Anscombe explores the concept of intention in depth, arguing that understanding intention is essential for any moral evaluation. She distinguishes between different types of intentions and their implications for moral philosophy.
2. "The First Person" (1975)
In this work, Anscombe delves into the philosophy of language and the nature of self-reference, adding to her exploration of action and intention.
3. "Causality and Determination" (1971)
This work addresses the relationship between causality and moral responsibility, further developing her critique of the mechanistic view of human action prevalent in contemporary philosophy.
Impact on Contemporary Moral Philosophy
Anscombe's critique of modern moral philosophy has had lasting effects on ethical discourse. Her insistence on the importance of intention and virtue has led to a renewed interest in Aristotelian ethics and the moral implications of character.
1. Influence on Contemporary Thinkers
Many contemporary philosophers have drawn upon Anscombe's ideas, including:
- Alasdair MacIntyre: His work "After Virtue" reflects Anscombe's emphasis on virtue ethics and the shortcomings of modern moral theories.
- Philippa Foot: Foot has expanded on Anscombe's insights regarding moral virtues and has contributed to the development of contemporary virtue ethics.
2. Relevance in Ethical Debates
Anscombe's emphasis on intention and character remains relevant in various ethical debates, including:
- Bioethics: In discussions surrounding medical ethics, the intention behind actions (such as euthanasia or assisted suicide) is crucial in determining their moral standing.
- Business Ethics: The focus on character and virtue is increasingly recognized in corporate governance and ethical business practices, where intention and integrity play critical roles.
3. Critiques and Challenges
While Anscombe's ideas have been influential, they have also faced critiques:
- Utilitarian Defense: Proponents of utilitarianism argue that focusing on outcomes can lead to a more objective assessment of morality.
- Complexity of Intention: Critics contend that intentions can be ambiguous, making it challenging to assess moral actions solely based on intent.
The Lasting Legacy of Gem Anscombe
Gem Anscombe's contributions to modern moral philosophy have left an indelible mark on the field. Her critique of consequentialism, emphasis on intention, and revival of virtue ethics have reshaped moral discourse. As contemporary philosophers continue to grapple with ethical questions, Anscombe's insights remain a valuable resource, challenging us to consider the deeper implications of our moral choices.
Conclusion
In summary, Gem Anscombe's modern moral philosophy invites us to reflect on the complexities of moral reasoning. By prioritizing intention and character, she challenges us to think critically about ethical behavior in a world often dominated by utilitarian calculations. Her work not only critiques contemporary moral theories but also offers a compelling alternative rooted in the rich tradition of virtue ethics. As we navigate the moral landscape of the 21st century, Anscombe's philosophy serves as a guiding light, urging us to consider the moral implications of our actions and the intentions that drive them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main themes of G.E.M. Anscombe's 'Modern Moral Philosophy'?
The main themes include a critique of contemporary moral philosophy, a focus on virtue ethics, and the importance of intention in moral actions. Anscombe argues for a return to Aristotelian ethics and emphasizes the need for a moral framework grounded in human nature.
How does Anscombe critique the concept of moral obligation in modern ethics?
Anscombe critiques the notion of moral obligation by arguing that it is often disconnected from a coherent understanding of human actions and intentions. She believes that modern moral theories, particularly those that rely on categorical imperatives, fail to account for the complexities of moral situations.
In what way does Anscombe's work relate to the concept of intention?
Anscombe places significant emphasis on the role of intention in moral philosophy. She argues that understanding a person's intentions is crucial for evaluating their actions morally, suggesting that moral assessment cannot be divorced from the context and motivations behind actions.
What is the significance of virtue ethics in Anscombe's philosophy?
Virtue ethics is central to Anscombe's philosophy as she advocates for a return to character and virtues as the foundation of moral reasoning. She believes that modern ethics has neglected the importance of moral character, which is essential for a comprehensive understanding of moral behavior.
How has Anscombe's 'Modern Moral Philosophy' influenced contemporary ethical discussions?
Anscombe's work has influenced contemporary ethical discussions by prompting a revival of interest in virtue ethics and the importance of intentions in moral philosophy. Her critiques of modern ethical frameworks have encouraged philosophers to reconsider the foundations of moral reasoning and to explore alternative approaches.
What impact did Anscombe's views have on the development of feminist ethics?
Anscombe's emphasis on the relational aspects of morality and the significance of personal intention and character has informed feminist ethics by highlighting the importance of context and the complexities of moral agency. Her work encourages a more nuanced understanding of ethical issues, particularly those affecting women.
