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The Rejection of Objective Consequentialism

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  • Howard-Snyder, Frances

Abstract

Objective consequentialism is often criticized because it is impossible to know which of our actions will have the best consequences. Why exactly does this undermine objective consequentialism? I offer a new link between the claim that our knowledge of the future is limited and the rejection of objective consequentialism: that ‘ought’ implies ‘can’ and we cannot produce the best consequences available to us. I support this apparently paradoxical contention by way of an analogy. I cannot beat Karpov at chess in spite of the fact that I can make each of many series of moves, at least one of which would beat him. I then respond to a series of objections. In the process I develop an account of the ‘can’ of ability. I conclude with some remarks about the bearing this attack has on subjective consequentialism.

Suggested Citation

  • Howard-Snyder, Frances, 1997. "The Rejection of Objective Consequentialism," Utilitas, Cambridge University Press, vol. 9(2), pages 241-248, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:utilit:v:9:y:1997:i:02:p:241-248_00
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