A Dictionary of Philosophy, Third Edition
Shaftesbury, Third Earl of
. 1671–1713. Also called Anthony Ashley Cooper, he was born in London, lived mostly in England, and died at Naples. His early education was entrusted to LOCKE. He was an early representative of the MORAL SENSE school, believing in a ‘natural sense of right and wrong’.
He emphasized the existence of altruistic sentiments, and gave a utilitarian basis for morality, which could be reinforced by religion but was not dependent upon it. An Inquiry concerning Virtue or Merit, 1699. Characteristics of Men, Manners, Opinions, Times, 1711 (collected treatises, including the Inquiry). See also HUTCHESON.
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