도덕의 동기와 이기(利己) = Moral Motivation and Self - Interest

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

Since deontological theories had overridden teleological ones in the field of ethics after Kant, attack on egoism became a sign of departure as a moral philosopher. And, on the viewpoint of utilitarian ethicists, egoism cannot be permitted, either. The ultimate end of normative ethics is to make clear that morality is far-off from pursuit of self-interest and to present how to overcome egoism. The writer of the present paper is much doubtful whether the end would be gained and, moreover, would rather maintain that moral motivation is enforced by consideration of self-interest and that ethical egoism is a desirable theory in moral philosophy.
The question 'Why be moral?' or 'Why ought we to de what is right?' is old, but not trivial one. We do it: a. in pursuit of self-interest, b. because it is divine command, c. in pursuit of common-interest, d. because it is right. The reason why be moral is decided in a rational way according to what kind of a life he wishes to live or what kind of a person he wishes to be. But, consideration of self interest is the basic reason and, in case of conflict among reasons, the one usually controls the others. Nowell-Smith says that 'I ought' is used to express a verdict or decision and that, therefore, the question 'I ought, but, but will I?' is not arisen. But the case is everywhere that one accepts a moral judgment and cannot do it. Moral motive is a reason of moral judgment but it does not extend to motivation.
If ethical egoism explains that only egoistic motive is our whole motive of conduct, it is difficult to be supported. We have various sentiments or affections about lots of objects and among them the one is egoistic and the another is altruistic. But, when those motives conflict with one another, the question which is motivated for the sake of gain of the possible maximum amount of happiness remains.
Consideration of self-interest is the dominative motive of our conduct and morality is based on self-interest if it is to have practical effort. Morality is a mere label.