Articles authored by J.P.

Ethical Egoism and Biblical Self-Interest
by J.P. Moreland

  • Title: Ethical Egoism and Biblical Self-Interest
  • Date: 1997
  • Source: Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 59 (1997), 257-68
  • Article Type:
  • Audience:
  • Kingdom Categories:
Description:

In this article, I try to show why ethical egoism is a defective normative ethical theory and, given this conclusion, I offer ways to understand a biblical concept of self-interest that does not entail the truth of ethical egoism.

First, I clarify the precise nature of ethical egoism.

Second, I summarize the main types of the argument in the literature for and against ethical egoism and conclude that it is inadequate.

Third, I offer a set of important distinctions for understanding biblical self-interest while avoiding ethical egoism.

Related Content: If this article interests you, you might also want to consider the following

Benefits:

  • It clearly shows how self-interest is a biblical idea.
  • It models how biblical discussions about important ethical concepts can converse with major ethical theories.
  • It provides a helpful exposition of the strengths and weaknesses of ethical egoism and how it is ultimately inadequate as a theory.

Download this item.

Comment With Care

You may Login or , or simply comment:

One Response to 'Ethical Egoism and Biblical Self-Interest'

  1. Great post. I wish to thank you for this informative read, I definitely appreciate sharing this terrific post. Keep up your work.