Final answer:
Ethical egoism is the philosophy that one should act in their own self-interest, but it faces criticism for lacking universality and the ability to resolve moral conflicts. Both strong and weak forms are analyzed, with the understanding that ethical principles should aim beyond individual interest for societal growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
Evaluating Ethical Egoism:
The question at hand examines ethical egoism, especially in light of consistency with our considered moral judgments. Ethical egoism posits that individuals should act in their own self-interest, and it can be further dissected into strong and weak forms. Strong ethical egoism advocates that one's self-interest is the only right guiding principle, while weak ethical egoism allows for the pursuit of self-interest without deeming alternate actions as morally wrong.
Arguments for ethical egoism suggest that rational self-interest inherently implies ethical egoism. Additionally, it challenges the extremes of altruism, which can be degrading if demanding total self-sacrifice. Meanwhile, objections to ethical egoism highlight its lack of universality and inability to resolve moral conflicts, as it lacks a consistent principle of 'the Good' accepted by all.
Creative middle ways are necessary when individual interests result in conflict. International organizations like the United Nations may operate on different ethical principles, such as the Principle of Utility, in an effort to find resolutions and avoid violence. It is argued that to mature as a species, humanity needs to use reason to establish moral principles beyond self-centered ethical egoism, fostering peaceful conflict resolution.