In this paper, I aim at framing the ‘negative emotion’ of indifference, starting from its diachronic declination, which seems to benefit from a form of justification from the moral point of view (section 1). In order to prevent indifference and to reduce its intrinsic motivational strength, I introduce a methodological account (classifying forms of reasons to act) to frame the struggle among internal motivations to the individual agent (section 2). I employ a two-move strategy. Firstly, I acknowledge what we could call a ‘positive emotion’—a sense of solidarity, diachronically understood—against indifference, in order to show that indifference is not the sole possible destination for humankind (section 3). Secondly, to strengthen the motivational role of that positive emotion, I rehabilitate a moral approach aimed at establishing a unique normative linkage among generations by reshaping the interplay between ‘wide’ and ‘narrow’ obligations as presented by Kant (section 4). The ultimate goal is to contrast the moral strength offered by indifference with a motivational path devoted to legitimising the diachronic moral commitment and duties of justice among generations.
Beyond Diachronic Indifference? Grounding the Normative Commitment towards Intergenerational Justice
Alberto Pirni
2021-01-01
Abstract
In this paper, I aim at framing the ‘negative emotion’ of indifference, starting from its diachronic declination, which seems to benefit from a form of justification from the moral point of view (section 1). In order to prevent indifference and to reduce its intrinsic motivational strength, I introduce a methodological account (classifying forms of reasons to act) to frame the struggle among internal motivations to the individual agent (section 2). I employ a two-move strategy. Firstly, I acknowledge what we could call a ‘positive emotion’—a sense of solidarity, diachronically understood—against indifference, in order to show that indifference is not the sole possible destination for humankind (section 3). Secondly, to strengthen the motivational role of that positive emotion, I rehabilitate a moral approach aimed at establishing a unique normative linkage among generations by reshaping the interplay between ‘wide’ and ‘narrow’ obligations as presented by Kant (section 4). The ultimate goal is to contrast the moral strength offered by indifference with a motivational path devoted to legitimising the diachronic moral commitment and duties of justice among generations.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
