Intrinsic Good

Intrinsic good, also called inherent worth, is a fundamental concept in ethics and value theory. It stands in contrast to instrumental good, which is valuable only because it leads to something else that is good. Identifying what is intrinsically good is a central aim of many ethical systems.

The concept of intrinsic good is crucial for establishing moral foundations. If everything were only instrumentally good, then there would be no ultimate reason to pursue anything. Intrinsic goods provide the ultimate justification for our actions and values.

Philosophers have proposed various candidates for intrinsic good. Common suggestions include happiness, pleasure, knowledge, virtue, and beauty. The debate over which, if any, of these truly possess intrinsic worth continues to be a major topic of discussion.

The importance of intrinsic good extends beyond theoretical ethics. It has practical implications for decision-making in areas such as environmental ethics and public policy. Recognizing the intrinsic value of nature, for example, can influence conservation efforts.

Different ethical theories place varying emphasis on intrinsic goods. Consequentialist theories, like utilitarianism, often focus on maximizing overall happiness, treating happiness as an intrinsic good. Deontological theories, conversely, may prioritize duty and moral principles, which could be considered intrinsically valuable regardless of their consequences.

The concept of intrinsic value has roots in ancient philosophy. Plato, for instance, argued that the Form of the Good is the ultimate source of all value, and that contemplating this Form is intrinsically good. Aristotle also discussed the concept of eudaimonia, often translated as flourishing or living well, as an intrinsic good.

Determining what is intrinsically good can be challenging. Some argue that our judgments of intrinsic value are subjective and culturally influenced. Others maintain that objective standards exist, discoverable through reason and moral intuition.

The distinction between intrinsic and instrumental good is not always clear-cut. Something can be both intrinsically and instrumentally valuable. For example, knowledge might be valued for its own sake (intrinsic) and for its practical applications (instrumental).