Atomic Phil: Ethical Egoism

Hello Debaters,

this is going to be different from the usual. What do we mean by this? It’s the first atomic newsletter we will send out. This atomic article series is going to be centered around philosophical theories in debate. The goal is to help you navigate the vast number of theories quickly and effectively. Let’s get started:

ATOMIC THEORY OF THE WEEK:

ETHICAL EGOISM

At its core, Ethical Egoism asserts that our moral duty is to pursue our own well-being and self-interests. This theory challenges conventional ethical frameworks, urging debaters to delve into the intricate balance between self-interest and societal obligations.

Strategies for Success:

Consider wielding Ethical Egoism as a rhetorical weapon. It works exceptionally well at conflicting with theories like utilitarianism and altruism if you can apply it to the resolution. Craft cases that highlight the ethical dimensions of self-interest, and strategically counter opponents with an understanding of the theory's implications. It is also nice to use when you are arguing with a framework dependent case as it is hard to link into under most conventional theories, but it can very sneakily link into other frameworks.

Brief arguments for/against ethical egoism:

For:
-Given our self-seeking nature, ethical principles should be grounded in a form of self-love. Proposing actions contrary to one's greatest good is unreasonable.
-By prioritizing personal well-being, ethical egoism argues for a more pragmatic approach to morality which emphasizes the importance of self-care

Against:
-It’s self-contradicting: if one asserts that maximizing personal well-being is an obligation, it leads one denying and affirming that others should maximize their well-being for the egoist's sake.
-It is inconsistent: For instance, if ethical egoism advises both individuals A and B to attend a game for their self-interest, yet only one seat is available, it freezes action. Moreover, if I, as A, am an ethical egoist, I face a contradiction: I assert that B ought to attend the game for her self-interest, but simultaneously, I do not want B to go because it goes against my own self-interest.

Happy Debating!

Remi Kojo

The Forensic Funnel Team