There's a striking parallel between physicalism and universalism. By physicalism, I mean the view that when we die we cease to exist. We are our bodies. We don't outlive our bodies.
That has a leveling effect. The best and the worse of humanity share a common fate. The philanthropist and the serial killer both pass into oblivion when they expire.
The question that raises is, Why be good? Especially in situations where altruism conflicts with self-interest.
That's the mirror image of universalism. In universalism, instead of good guys suffering the same fate as bad guys, bad guys share the same fate as good guys. No losers. Everyone wins!
Once again, that has a leveling effect. The best and the worse of humanity share a common fate. The philanthropist and the serial killer both wind up in heaven.
The question that raises is, Why be good? Especially in situations where altruism conflicts with self-interest.
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