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Conceptions of choice and conceptions of autonomy

Article Abstract:

The rational choice theory describes choice as selecting the best option from a set of alternatives, as from a menu. This model is inherently frustrating, since the set of alternatives is not itself a matter of choice, the idea of ranking preferences has no limit and every choice has a cost in lost opportunities. Another conception of choice is based on intrinsic value instead of comparison; in this view choosing is willing, as in falling in love. A better account of autonomy, which accommodates issues of personal identity, commitment and moral autonomy, derives from this concept of choice.

Will, Will (Philosophy)

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Social freedom and the test of moral responsibility

Article Abstract:

The responsibility view of social freedom views obstacles as constraints on freedom if and only if there is an agent morally responsible for the obstacle's existence or nonsuppression. However, the test of moral responsibility offered by S.I. Benn and W.L. Weinstein is too narrow, W.E. Connolly's is too broad and D. Miller's is either trivial or wrong depending on whether a permissive or narrow interpretation is adopted. A plausible definition assigns moral responsibility for nonsuppression of an obstacle when a reasonable person could have been expected to suppress the obstacle.

Responsibility, Liberty, Freedom

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Rewarding regret

Article Abstract:

Regret can function as a means to an end, but most philosophers will reject regret as causing unnecessary pain. Humanists would value regret for its preventive effect on unsociable behavior, and biologists might defend regret as a reminder of counterfactual outcomes. Internal and external reasons can change how regret operates. Action guidance is not the best criterion of adequacy.

Psychological aspects, Decision making, Decision-making (Ethics), Repentance

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