Quote from: abitpeckish on May 21, 2013, 03:52 amI do not agree that there is "absolutely nothing" that speaks to the inherent value in our desires, thoughts, intentions, and actions. In fact, a cute way of stating my position would be that "absolutely everything" speaks to an inherent value quotient of all our desires, thoughts, intentions, actions, and that the more we understand about the nature of this "absolutely everything" the more precisely we can understand those values.Interesting. You seem to be describing a vague form of philosophical hedonism. In a sense I agree, and I certainly act as though I agree -- I go about my day acting like a preference utilitarian and wish everyone did the same -- but logically, I do not believe my preference is any more worth striving for than the next fellow's. I strive for my own because it is my own, and what I find gratifying is pleasurable. And I seek pleasure, just as every other creature does.I find it odd that you think there's something more than selfishness to your motivations, but I thank you for your response.