Psychology, Moral Theory, and Politics: Dewey’s Mature Theory of Interest in the 1932 Ethics

none1noThis chapter deals with Dewey’s definition and discussion of the concept of interest in the 1932 Ethics. Part I of the chapter reconstructs the definition of interest as integration. The integrative force of interest is at work in at least two directions. According to Dewey, interests are able to integrate (1) the objective and subjective dimensions of conduct and experience, and (2) the pre-reflexive dimensions of needs, impulses, desires, emotions, and human reflexive capacity. Part II analyzes how the definition of interest as integration leads Dewey to a radical critique of the self-interest versus disinterestedness dichotomy. This double dismissal hinges on a radical rethinking of the relationship between self and interest. Every interest is an interest of the self, but not every interest is self-interest; disinterestedness does not mean lack of interest, but rather a particular type and quality of interest. Part III highlights how Dewey in the 1932 Ethics systematizes and analytically develops some insights about interest introduced in his psychological, pedagogical, and political essays.mixedmatteo santarellimatteo santarell