Abstract
DR. WADDINGTON appears to identify ‘ethical’ with whatever the super–ego demands, which is surely too sweeping. Even when it presents its demands in the name of conscience the super–ego is, emphatically, not always a trustworthy guide. Anyone who has studied the vagaries of conscience must agree that this still, small voice (or raging dictator) may, and sometimes does, inspire appalling behaviour; and conscience, as we recognize it, is only a small and relatively reasonable portion of the Freudian super–ego. Its less rational behests, in the form of morbid compulsions, may well land its victims in gaol, or in the mad–house.
Similar content being viewed by others
Article PDF
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
STEPHEN, K. The Relations between Science and Ethics. Nature 148, 534 (1941). https://doi.org/10.1038/148534a0
Published:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/148534a0
Comments
By submitting a comment you agree to abide by our Terms and Community Guidelines. If you find something abusive or that does not comply with our terms or guidelines please flag it as inappropriate.