What are the drawbacks of internalism in comparison to externalism?

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What are the drawbacks of internalism in comparison to externalism?

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Nelda Laurant

Well, well, well, my dear friends! Have you ever wondered about the drawbacks of internalism in comparison to externalism? Or have you been living under a rock, unaware of these philosophical debates? Well, fear not! I am here to enlighten you on this juicy topic.

Firstly, let's clear up what internalism and externalism are all about. Internalism is the belief that a person's mental states, such as their beliefs and desires, are sufficient to determine their moral obligations. Externalism, on the other hand, states that a person's moral obligations are determined by external factors, such as social norms and rules.

Now, onto the drawbacks of internalism. One issue is that internalism does not account for the influence of external factors on a person's actions. For example, a person may have a desire to donate to a charity, but may not be able to due to financial constraints. Internalism would view this person as morally obligated to donate, despite the external circumstances preventing them from doing so.

Another issue with internalism is that it can lead to a narrow-minded perspective on morality. If a person believes that their mental states are all that is necessary to determine their moral obligations, they may not consider the impact of their actions on others or society as a whole. This can lead to selfish behavior and a lack of concern for the well-being of others.

Externalism, on the other hand, takes into account the influence of external factors on a person's actions and moral obligations. It recognizes that a person's moral responsibilities are not solely determined by their internal states, but also by the societal norms and rules that shape their behavior. This broader perspective on morality allows for a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of ethical obligations.

In conclusion, while internalism may seem appealing in its simplicity, it overlooks important external factors and can lead to a narrow-minded view of morality. Externalism, on the other hand, takes a more holistic approach, recognizing the impact of external factors on moral obligations. So, my dear friends, the next time you find yourself debating the merits of internalism and externalism, remember to consider the full picture and the potential drawbacks of each approach. Happy philosophizing!

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