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December 29, 2007
only what is good makes us happy
It is not true that the desire for happiness destines man for ethical goodness. It is rather the case that the concept of happiness itself and the desire for happiness first arise from man’s moral nature. Not what makes us happy is good, but rather, only what is good makes us happy. No happiness is possible apart from morality. Of course, feelings of pleasure are possible without morality and even in opposition to it. But pleasurable feelings are not happiness, they often even contradict happiness.
Fichte - Lectures Concerning the Scholar's Vocation
Posted by amin at December 29, 2007 12:52 AM