Perfectionism: A Critical Analysis

Document Type : Research Paper

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Abstract

Perfectionism, as an ethical theory, has a considerable capacity for providing an explanation of human moral good and happiness. According to a common reading, the core of this theory consists in human essence and man’s essential properties. Its main claim is that one is able to achieve his/her ideal perfection through training and actualizing his/her essential talents. In this view, human nature is intrinsically valuable and thus the development of one’s essential abilities ends in one’s real happiness. In this paper, after a review of various readings of perfectionism and their main claims, we make a critical survey of its elements and arguments. In the next stage the most important objections against perfectionism will be discussed including the refutation of essentialism. The final conclusion will be that perfectionism is much powerful to face the contemporary ethical problems.

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References

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Journal of Religious Thought : A Quarterly Journal of Shiraz University
Volume 13, Issue 48 - Serial Number 48
September 2013
Pages 47-64

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