Beauvoir-Notes
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Case Western Reserve University *
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Philosophy
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Jan 9, 2024
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Uploaded by ElderLorisMaster392
The Ethics of Ambiguity
1)
How does Beauvoir relate the idea of ambiguity to being ethical?
Beauvoir states that ambiguity is essential to ethical behaviors. She subscribes to the
existentialist view that human beings are fundamentally free. However, she states that due to the
constraints of our existence this freedom is not as free as it may seem and denoted this
dichotomy as ambiguity.
These constraints of existence include things such as the existence of others who are also free.
The presence of others allows ppl to better recognize themselves and their own freedoms,
however can also provide ambiguity as people often perceive others as potential threats and
obstacles to their free desires.
She states that ethical behavior is that which not only utilizes one’s freedom in an authentic
fashion but considers how this impacts other people’s freedoms and dignity. There is an
established interdependence of the choices of one person and the choices of the broader
community.
2)
What is the relationship between personal freedom and other people?
Beauvoir mentions the others as another tenant of free expression. The presence of the other is a
3)
How does Beauvoir describe Existentialism?
Beauvoir highlights the radical freedom as a hallmark of Existentialism much like her
contemporary philosophers, however places an additional constraint on this freedom; stating that
the freedom is present and bound the the current context and situation one is in. Individuals are
simultaneously free to make choices but constrained by the limitations of their current
conditions.
Oppressive structures are conditional circumstances that place limitations on the freedom of an
individual.
She discusses the phenomenon of "The Serious" and "The Nihilistic," contrasting attitudes
towards the limitations of freedom.
The Serious accept the oppressive structures as inevitable
and choose to conform, while the N
ihilistic reject any form of engagement, leading to a sense of
despair and meaninglessness.
Subversive refuses to accept oppressive structures and actively works towards challenging and
dismantling them. This involves a continuous struggle for liberation and the assertion of one's
freedom against oppressive forces.
Using violence to fight oppression:
She recognizes the complexities of this choice, stating that
violence
can be a means of breaking
free from oppressive structures. Violence may seem necessary in certain contexts. Beuvoir states
that we should examine violence in the context of ethical responsibility
In certain situations, oppressed groups may see violence as a necessary response to the violence
and oppression they face. Beauvoir doesn't outright condemn violence but instead examines it in
the context of the ethical responsibility of individuals and movements.
Unchecked violence can lead to the establishment of new forms of oppression and can
undermine the ethical foundation of the liberation movement.
Therefore, it remains important to uphold ethical responsibilities and principles even when
fighting oppressive systems.
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