Does "should" imply "can?" If you tell people they "ought" to do something, is it a fair reason for them not to do what you think they "ought" if they argue that they cannot do it? Use an example and discuss this basic idea of David Hume: that "ought" implies "can."

Question

Arts

Juliette Jimenez

8 January, 11:23

Does "should" imply "can?" If you tell people they "ought" to do something, is it a fair reason for them not to do what you think they "ought" if they argue that they cannot do it? Use an example and discuss this basic idea of David Hume: that "ought" implies "can."

+2

Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Abbigail Mendez · Answer 1

Ought is another way of saying should. Like you should do this or you ought to do that. If someone tells you you should do something or you ought to do something if probably can do it, but it is up to you if you are going to do it or not because they aren't forcing you. They aren't saying you have to. They are saying you should.