ABSTRACT

The sphere of positive values has an antinomic character, which for ethics is a deeply significant fact. The distinguishing mark of discernible group is, that along with the relation of positive and negative the opposition of positive to positive subsists. The antinomic character of the most general opposites, however, varies greatly. Some are almost in agreement, others are far apart and show no tendency to coalesce. The antinomic character of opposites would be due only to consciousness, and our limitations would be the cause of our inability to reconcile them. It was shown how in life there is, besides the conflict between moral and anti-moral impulses, also a conflict between moral and moral. The analysis of value and the Ought furnishes the occasion for the development of the opposites. It is evident that many essential features, disclosed by this analysis, have themselves a valuational character—although with some it is very slight.