Why Worry About Future Generations? Uehiro, Practical Ethics and Long-Term Thinking

The well-being of future generations is a central concern in contemporary ethics. As we face pressing global challenges such as climate change, environmental degradation, and technological advancements, questions about our moral responsibilities towards those who will inherit the consequences of our actions become increasingly urgent.

Why Worry About Future Generations? (Uehiro Series in Practical Ethics)

by Samuel Scheffler

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	712 KB
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In his article, "Practical Ethics and Long-Term Thinking," philosopher InUehiro argues that we have a strong moral obligation to consider the interests of future generations in our decision-making. He proposes a practical framework for ethical decision-making that emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking and intergenerational justice.

Uehiro's Framework for Ethical Decision-Making

Uehiro's framework for ethical decision-making is based on the following principles:

• We have a moral obligation to future generations.
• We should make decisions that are likely to promote the well-being of future generations.
• We should give equal consideration to the interests of future generations as we do to the interests of present generations.

Uehiro argues that these principles are not only morally sound but also practical. By considering the interests of future generations, we can make better decisions about how to use our resources, protect the environment, and develop technology. We can also avoid or mitigate the negative consequences of our actions for future generations.

Challenges in Implementing Uehiro's Framework

While Uehiro's framework provides a sound ethical basis for decision-making, there are a number of challenges in implementing it in practice.

• Uncertainty: It is difficult to predict the future and the needs of future generations. This uncertainty can make it difficult to make decisions that are likely to promote their well-being.
• Conflicting interests: The interests of present generations may conflict with the interests of future generations. For example, our desire for economic growth may lead to environmental degradation that will negatively impact future generations.
• Discounting the future: People tend to discount the value of future outcomes, making it difficult to give equal consideration to the interests of future generations as we do to the interests of present generations.

Despite these challenges, Uehiro argues that we must strive to implement his framework in practice. The well-being of future generations is at stake, and we have a moral responsibility to make decisions that are in their best interests.

The Importance of Long-Term Thinking

Long-term thinking is essential for ethical decision-making. By thinking long-term, we can anticipate the potential consequences of our actions and make decisions that are likely to promote the well-being of future generations.

Long-term thinking also helps us to avoid the temptation to discount the future. When we think short-term, we tend to focus on the immediate benefits of our actions, without considering the long-term consequences. This can lead to decisions that are harmful to future generations.

By cultivating long-term thinking, we can make better decisions about how to use our resources, protect the environment, and develop technology. We can also avoid or mitigate the negative consequences of our actions for future generations.

InUehiro's framework for ethical decision-making provides a sound basis for addressing the ethical challenges we face in prioritizing the well-being of future generations. While there are challenges in implementing this framework, it is essential that we strive to do so. The well-being of future generations is at stake, and we have a moral responsibility to make decisions that are in their best interests.

Why Worry About Future Generations? (Uehiro Series in Practical Ethics)

by Samuel Scheffler

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	712 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	160 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE