3.5k views
0 votes
Is intrinsic value an intelligible concept?

User Pcronin
by
7.9k points

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

The concept of intrinsic value is meaningful, reflecting the worth of something in itself, and becomes a significant point of discussion in philosophy, especially when considering ethical implications and the is-ought problem.

Step-by-step explanation:

The concept of intrinsic value is intelligible as it refers to something being valued for its own sake. Monism and pluralism approach this concept differently, with monism suggesting a single fundamental intrinsic value and pluralism arguing for multiple such values. The is-ought problem highlights the difficulty of deriving ethical prescriptions from factual descriptions, which is connected to the discussion of intrinsic worth. Philosophical inquiries into intrinsic value include analyzing whether something like happiness, as Aristotle proposed, can possess intrinsic value, or whether a range of values must be accounted for.

Interpreting and engaging with intrinsic value requires critical thinking beyond intuition, especially for those new to philosophical discourse. This engagement is essential for pondering questions like what has intrinsic value and what actions or policies maximize this value. In philosophy, recognizing and understanding the distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic value can lead to deeper insights into what we consider good or worthwhile.

User Sumukh Barve
by
7.8k points