CHAPTER XIII. Philosophical Intuitionism

PHILOSOPHICAL INTUITIONISM

1. The Philosopher, as such, attempts to penetrate beneath the surface of Common Sense to some deeper principles: 373-374

2. but has too often presented to the world, as the result of his investigation, tautological propositions and vicious circles. 374-379

3. Still there are certain abstract moral principles of real importance, intuitively known; though they are not sufficient by themselves to give complete practical guidance. Thus we can exhibit a self-evident element in the commonly recognised principles of Prudence, Justice, and Benevolence. 379-384

4. This is confirmed by a reference to Clarke’s and Kant’s systems: 384-386

5. and also to Utilitarianism: which needs for its basis a self-evident principle of Rational Benevolence; as is shown by a criticism of Mill’s “proof.” 386-389

Note 389-390