Study Questions

  1. What is human nature according to Butler? From what principles do our actions arise? For what end are we naturally designed? Do you find his account of human nature plausible? Why or why not?
  2. What does it mean to act according to nature, in Butler’s view? Is it always desirable to act naturally in this sense? Defend your answer.
  3. According to Butler, what is the relationship between benevolence and self-love? How does he argue for his view of the matter? Do you agree with him?
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