Self-Deception as a Moral Failure

Abstract In this paper, I defend the view that self-deception is a moral failure. Instead of saying bad because it undermines our character or leads to morally deleterious consequences, as has been argued by Butler, Kant, Smith, and others, argue distinctive badness lies in tragic relationship bears own values. On one hand, motivated what we value. other prevents us from valuing those things properly. owe ourselves take seriously values, striving properly value them. This gives both prudential reasons avoid self-deception.