MobileRead Forums - View Single Post - Seriousness Without repercussions, would we have morals?

FizzyWater · 07-22-2010, 03:49 AM

I don't really think there's a direct tie between "morality" (which I see as personal value judgments, whether religious or humanistic) and "fear of repercussions".

I don't think people would generally just toss their basic value system because the world is going to end. But I think many would do things they wouldn't do everyday, with the fear of repercussions removed.

I could imagine maxing out my credit card and visiting some of the places around the world I've always wanted to see, but couldn't afford. Who would it hurt? (Assuming the banking system didn't completely collapse, of course). Or seeking out a lover without worrying about his sexual past. And I certainly can't imagine going back to work for those last seven days! (My job benefits no one but corporate America...might feel differently if I were a medical worker, for example).

And Neil, if the offer is still open, I'll gladly send an email for your offered book - thanks!

07-22-2010, 03:49 AM	#15
FizzyWater You kids get off my lawn! Posts: 4,220 Karma: 73492664 Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Columbus, Ohio Device: Oasis 2 and Libra H2O and half a dozen older models I can't let go of	I don't really think there's a direct tie between "morality" (which I see as personal value judgments, whether religious or humanistic) and "fear of repercussions". I don't think people would generally just toss their basic value system because the world is going to end. But I think many would do things they wouldn't do everyday, with the fear of repercussions removed. I could imagine maxing out my credit card and visiting some of the places around the world I've always wanted to see, but couldn't afford. Who would it hurt? (Assuming the banking system didn't completely collapse, of course). Or seeking out a lover without worrying about his sexual past. And I certainly can't imagine going back to work for those last seven days! (My job benefits no one but corporate America...might feel differently if I were a medical worker, for example). And Neil, if the offer is still open, I'll gladly send an email for your offered book - thanks!