We all want to be good or be seen to be good. Even the most vicious dictators imagined that they were on the side of truth and justice. From the Christian Crusaders of medieval times to the twin tower terrorists of today, from the leaders of both sides in WW1 to Putin and his invasion of Ukraine, those who carry out acts of terrible violence and destruction are often motivated by believing that they are acting on ultimate principles and right is on their side. Might therefore the most dangerous of all values be the belief that we are acting for the good? For is this not the defence used to support our actions however self-interested, however unjust, however cruel?
Was Nietzsche right when he concluded "the most dangerous of all errors... is the Good'? Should we recognise that when we believe ourselves to be acting for the good we are often seeking to defend an outcome we think beneficial for ourselves? Or is the desire to be good the only defence we have against a far more terrible outcome that all pursue their goals with no regard for others?
Post-postmodern philosopher Hilary Lawson, outspoken philosopher Kathleen Stock and University of Oxford philosopher Hilary Greaves debate why it might be bad to be good. Sophie Scott-Brown hosts.