Diotima: The Marist Undergraduate Philosophy Journal
But they offer vastly different explanations for why. The regret deontologist can
agree with the regret consequentialist that the outcome in this case is regrettable.
However, they will argue that, in this case, contrary to Bitcoin Pizza Guy , regret
seems extra fitting, and that the outcome sense of mistake cannot account for the
whole story. There seems to be an additional layer to your regret because you
deliberated badly. That’s what makes this case seem especially regret -worthy.
Can the regret consequentialist explain the ‘extra’ negative feelings here? I
think so. The regret consequentialist claims that you regret your decision because
it led to a terrible outcome. In addition, the regret consequentialist will argue that
something else is going on here. The ‘extra’ negative feelings are best interpreted
as coming not from more regret, but rather from self-reproach, i.e., criticizing or
disapproving of yourself for having engaged in bad deliberation. Is there any way
to decide between these two interpretations?
Regret vs. Self-Reproach/ Consequentialist vs. Deontological
Emotions
I will now explain both the similarities and differences between regret and self-
reproach. Regret and self-reproach are similar because they are both negative
emotions. Additionally, both can be directed towards actions. So, if regret and self-
reproach both involve negative emotions directed towards actions, how do they
differ? Here is my proposed analysis of the main differences between them. On my
view, self-reproach is best understood as a feeling of disappointment or
disapproval directed at oneself. It has four central characteristics:
1. A cognitive judgment: i.e., that the decision was irrationally made
2. Bad feelings: i.e., negative feelings directed at yourself
3. Normative responsibility: i.e., that you violated certain norms, and you
are criticizable for doing so
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