Religion and Ethics

Abstract

Often time, philosophical concepts can be conceived in several different perceptions. Good and evil are just one small example of these sometimes very controversial topics. Good and evil can be perceived several different ways simply because of environment and acquired thoughts. This paper will give several examples to these findings.

Introduction

The logic of moral obligation is the study of right and wrong, what is morally acceptable and mandatory. “A good will is good not because of what it effects or accomplishes nor because of the fitness to attain some proposed end; it is good only through its willing, i.e., it is good in itself” (Sommers &Sommers, 2010, p.232). In other words, when an act of kindness is performed for others it is meant to be a good deed or gesture toward mankind and not self fulfilling. Although this seems rather easy to perform, sometimes human nature causes one to be selfish can this be considered good or evil? Or is it just human nature?

The Dilemma

Immanuel Kant was a philosopher who believed that humans are rationally self conscious and has an “impure” freedom of choice and philosopher John Stuart Mill believed something similar but a tad bit different saying that people rely on the “pleasure” of intellect, subsequently both men believed that intelligence and self morals would be the key to life. The film Casablanca exudes both principles but also contradicts them at some point or another. The film contains components of hope, despair, optimism, disappointment and the resurfacing of lost ideals. It also holds the key to freedom which is the visa this is seen as the ultimate escape to freedom. When Rick realizes he is the one hope for IIsa and Laszlo’s escape to freedom, Blaine’s impartiality vanishes which then makes it imperative for Rick to act firmly.

The Decision

Kantian ethics state that we should not lie, yet Rick lies to IIsa even though his motives were not for self righteous purposes. He persuades IIsa to run away with him, but in all actuality Rick was secretly planning for Laszlo’s and IIsa’s escape. A deontologist argument may demand we look at the untruth as lying to IIsa may be a form of manipulation and that she is not intelligent enough to make the right decisions to organize her own escape but we have to question and ask is this truly the case? Counteracting to this logic, Rick’s deceitfulness is more of an act of selfishness in that deep down Rick knows IIsa and Lazlo must leave together, but he still loves IIsa. At this point we see Rick transformed and freed all in the name of love. “Oftentimes, moral theory focuses on numerous consequences besides pain and pleasure” (Sommers &Sommers,