"An Enquiry into the Origin of Honour; and the Usefulness of Christianity in War" by Bernard Mandeville explores the foundations of honor and its relationship with Christian principles, especially within wartime situations. The philosophical work examines moral questions about virtue and self-sacrifice, considering how human societies and governments shape these ideas. The book begins with a conversation between Horatio and Cleomenes, who examine the essence of honor, with Cleomenes suggesting that "Self-liking," a unique human drive, is its source. The dialogue differentiates between honor and virtue, highlighting instances where honor leads to pride-driven actions, and considers the historical and political influences on honor's development and potential manipulation, namely by the Church, which starts a wider discussion of honor's impact and moral structures.
An Enquiry into an Origin of Honour; and the Usefulness of Christianity in War
By Bernard Mandeville
In a world of virtue and war, two characters debate whether honor stems from genuine goodness or a self-serving human passion shaped by society and power.
Summary
About the AuthorBernard Mandeville, or Bernard de Mandeville, was an Anglo-Dutch philosopher, political economist, satirist, writer and physician. Born in Rotterdam, he lived most of his life in England and used English for most of his published works. He became famous for The Fable of the Bees.
Bernard Mandeville, or Bernard de Mandeville, was an Anglo-Dutch philosopher, political economist, satirist, writer and physician. Born in Rotterdam, he lived most of his life in England and used English for most of his published works. He became famous for The Fable of the Bees.
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