The theory of evolution in its application to practice

Abstract

In this chapter, Sidgwick addresses the ethical implications of Darwin’s theory of evolution. Sidgwick holds that the core of truth in Darwin’s view is that the most important function of the moral sense consists in the enforcement of those habits of life that are indispensable to the existence of any human society. The utilitarian views that Darwin seeks to transcend must be taken into account as they provide the only satisfactory specification of notions like well and good.