Image for R. M. Hare

R. M. Hare

R. M. Hare was a British philosopher known for his work in meta-ethics and moral philosophy. He argued for a version of utilitarianism that emphasizes not just consequences but also the importance of moral language and reasoning. Hare proposed the idea of "universal prescriptivism," suggesting that moral statements aren't just expressions of personal feelings but involve an obligation to consider everyone's interests equally. He believed that ethical decisions should promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number, while still adhering to principles of fairness and reasoned dialogue. His ideas help bridge moral theory with practical ethical discussions.

Additional Insights

  • Image for R. M. Hare

    R.M. Hare was a philosopher known for his work on ethical language and the meaning of religious statements. He argued that religious language expresses the commitments and attitudes of believers rather than conveying factual information. Hare introduced the concept of "blik," which refers to a worldview or perspective that shapes how individuals interpret their experiences. For Hare, statements like "God exists" can be meaningful as expressions of faith, even if they are not objectively verifiable. He emphasized the importance of understanding the intent behind religious language rather than trying to measure it against scientific standards.