Read pages 1 – 6 of Clifford, “Ethics of Belief”
file:///C:/Users/user/Downloads/Clifford_ethics%202.pdf
- Clifford opens his discussion by describing the case of a ship owner. The ship owner believes
on insufficient evidence that his decrepit old ship will reach its destination safely. The ship
owner’s belief puts other people’s lives in danger.
Though Clifford starts out by discussing a dramatic case in which lives are at stake, his thesis is
that it is wrong always and everywhere to believe anything on insufficient evidence. He doesn’t
qualify it by adding “when people’s lives are at stake.” Presumably, not all of our beliefs put
other people’s lives at risk. So, why does Clifford say it is always wrong to believe on insufficient
evidence? What reasons does he give to support this claim? - Do you think that Clifford’s thesis is too strong? Should it be qualified to make exceptions for
certain types of beliefs? If yes, why, and what might be some examples? If you think no
exceptions should be allowed, say why. Explain your view in a way that might persuade
someone who initially disagreed.
Sample Solution