Study Questions

  1. What, according to Rachels, is psychological egoism? What are the merits of psychological egoism? Do you think a version of this position is immune to Rachels’ criticisms? Explain your answer.
  2. According to Rachels, the unselfish person is precisely the one who derives satisfaction from helping others. Why does Rachels believe that this poses problems for psychological egoism? Do you think he is correct about these problems? Why or why not?
  3. What would you do if you possessed Gyges ring? What should you do if you possessed Gyges ring? Defend your answer to both questions.
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