Original scientific paper

Moral Rules and Exceptions

Miroslav M. Kiš ; Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Michigan, USA

Abstract

In a moral system, rules are often confronted by exceptions. In fact, an exception presupposes the existence of a rule, for logical necessity calls for a context of requirement before one can speak meaningfully about an exception. But the reverse statement, that a rule presupposes an exception, is more problematic. This essay explored two basic areas of ethical concrn. First, the author looked at moral discourse from the angle of the relation between moral rules and
their exceptions. Here four possible alternative relations are suggested. Second, a rationale for the basic thesis, that the admission of, and resistance to, exceptions has an impact on the rule, is provided. It appears that one should be reluetant to declare where any individual stands on the rule—exception issue. An attempt to define this displays either ignorance or arrogance or both. Only God
can accurately judge performance and preference.

Keywords

Morality; exception; rule; God's judgment

Hrčak ID:

89618

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/89618

Publication date:

30.6.1993.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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