Single Idea 2872

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / C. The Good / 1. Goodness / g. Consequentialism]

Full Idea

Throughout the longest part of history ('prehistoric times') the value or non-value of an action was derived from its consequences. …but now men are unanimous that the value of an action is in the intention behind it.

Gist of Idea

In the earliest phase of human history only consequences mattered

Source

Friedrich Nietzsche (Beyond Good and Evil [1886], §032)

Book Reference

Nietzsche,Friedrich: 'Beyond Good and Evil', ed/tr. Hollingdale,R.J. [Penguin 1973], p.44


A Reaction

This seems to be Kant's fault. No one thinks that a reckless or malicios action is innocent if no actual harm results.