Desire of Distinction and Social Dynamics in the Writings of the Abbé de Saint-Pierre Désir de distinction et dynamique sociale chez l’abbé de Saint-Pierre
Fiche du document
2021
- handle: 10670/1.n6o45a
- hal: hal-02551938
- doi: 10.7202/1083167ar
Ce document est lié à :
info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/doi/10.7202/1083167ar
Mots-clés
XVIIIe siècle Abbé de Saint-Pierre 1658-1743Sujets proches
Moral philosophy Science, Moral Morals Ethics, Primitive Philosophy, Moral Morality Deontology Ethology Appetency LongingCiter ce document
Carole Dornier, « Désir de distinction et dynamique sociale chez l’abbé de Saint-Pierre », HAL-SHS : histoire, ID : 10.7202/1083167ar
Métriques
Partage / Export
Résumé
The Abbé de Saint-Pierre sought to develop a science regarding morals that aimed at “the greatest happiness of the greatest number.” In his system, heroic morality and Christian asceticism give way to merit, the service of the nation, and values devoid of any charismatic dimension. Against an intention-based approach inspired by Augustinianism and against Mandeville’s abandonment of self-interest, Saint-Pierre devised political institutions and collective educational programs that guided the desire of distinction toward public utility. Properly channelled, the pleasure of being distinguished becomes a dynamic principle that has the potential to produce a prosperous, harmonious, and benevolent society.