LessonsObligation Beyond Capacity: Possibility, Ability, and Moral JudgmentQuiz

Permissibility and actual occurrence answer different questions. The first asks whether something is possible or coherent under the relevant standard. The second asks whether it has in fact happened.

Classical theologians report disagreement over the possibility of commanding an act beyond ordinary human ability yet conceivable in itself, even where its nonoccurrence is acknowledged.

Consequently, “no such obligation has been imposed” does not by itself entail “such an obligation is intrinsically impossible.” The meaning of permissibility must be specified before drawing that inference.

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Permissibility versus occurrence of an obligation

Obligation Beyond Capacity: Possibility, Ability, and Moral Judgment

Permissibility and actual occurrence answer different questions. The first asks whether something is possible or coherent under the relevant standard. The second asks whether it has in fact happened.

Classical theologians report disagreement over the possibility of commanding an act beyond ordinary human ability yet conceivable in itself, even where its nonoccurrence is acknowledged.

Consequently, “no such obligation has been imposed” does not by itself entail “such an obligation is intrinsically impossible.” The meaning of permissibility must be specified before drawing that inference.