Speakers：Sonoe OMODA [Meiji University], Ken OSHITANI [Waseda University]

Date：February 20, 2023／15:00‐16:40 (JST)

Location：Zoom

Language：Japanese

Title：Egoism as a Moral Theory

Target：Open to the public

Abstract：Egoism refers to a theory that places the pursuit of self-interest at the center of people's actual behavioral guidelines or normative principles. The theory of egoism, reformed as "Homo Economicus," has become a highly influential benchmark in contemporary economic theory. How should we view egoism or Homo Economicus as a principle for human society? While there are some attempts, such as social contract theory, to base obligations and morality on the pursuit of self-interest, there are also various criticisms of egoism that puts lower weight on the interests of others and social relations. We critically examine the methodological significance and practical implications of egoism as a normative theory. We also discuss how egoism can be compatible with standard moral theories.