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Pastimes : Don't Ask Rambi
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To: JF Quinnelly who wrote (26177)5/28/1999 8:10:00 AM
From: Ilaine  Read Replies (1) of 71178
 
I would say that the best argument in favor of ethical behavior is that it works. Society functions best, most efficiently, most orderly, when we all behave ethically. I think the recent demise of the Soviet system is a good example of the unworkability of an unethical society. People act best when they are acting in their own self-interest, balanced against the self-interest of others.

In the short run, government by force in favor of the few may maximize those few individuals' interests, but everyone else is going to do their best to kill them, and otherwise subvert the status quo. At the minimum, their efforts will be grudging, and inefficient. It's inherently unstable.

I think our own country is a good example of a society that doesn't need God or morality to function. Our system of law and government does not require either God or morality, you know. What behavior isn't addressed or controlled by law is addressed or controlled by social norms.
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