Promises - Philosophical Concept | Alexandria
Promises, elusive bargains with fate, are declarations of intent binding the speaker to a future action, seemingly straightforward assurances complicated by layers of expectation, circumstance, and the inherent fallibility of human will. What appears as a simple pledge may, in truth, be a nexus of moral obligation, personal integrity, and societal trust, a cornerstone of civilization itself, or a source of bitter disillusionment. The notion of promises stretches back into the mists of prehistory, but clear articulations emerge with the dawn of recorded language. Oaths sworn to deities in ancient Mesopotamian clay tablets (c. 3000 BCE) represent early forms of commitment, with divine wrath invoked as the consequence of failing to uphold one's word. Covenants between rulers, like those referenced in the Code of Hammurabi (c. 1754 BCE), formalized agreements, laying the groundwork for contract law and ethical responsibility. The Iliad portrays Achilles withdrawing from battle due to Agamemnon's broken pledge, showcasing the profound impact of promises on social cohesion and individual honor. Perhaps Cicero (106-43 BC) would be most relevant here, as a great Roman thinker. Over time, the understanding and interpretation of promises have evolved dramatically, influenced by philosophical, religious, and legal shifts. Medieval scholasticism, particularly through the work of Thomas Aquinas (c. 1225–1274), integrated Aristotelian ethics with Christian theology, emphasizing the sanctity of contracts and the sin of perjury. Immanuel Kant (1724-1804), in his formulation of the categorical imperative, argued for the unconditional necessity of truthfulness, making promise-keeping a universal moral duty. The rise of contractarianism, exemplified by John Locke (1632-1704) and Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778), further cemented the importance of promises in constructing just societies through the social contract. Consider the story of Dr. Faust, who made a pact with the devil promising to be eternally damned if the devil could fulfill his earthly ambitions. Now consider the story of Pinocchio who promised his father he would be a real boy if he proved he was brave, truthful, and unselfish. What hidden layers are there to promises made to devils and wooden puppets? More than meets the eye, indeed!
The legacy of promises persists as a fundamental element of social order, shaping legal systems, ethical codes, and personal relationships alike. In contemporary society, promises manifest in diverse forms: from legally binding contracts and political pledges to personal vows and digital agreements. Debates concerning the ethics of artificial intelligence, particularly regarding accountability for autonomous systems, echo the age-old question of who bears responsibility when a promise is broken. The exploration of moral obligation, utilitarianism, and deontology in moral philosophy further underscores the enduring significance of keeping one's word. As we navigate an increasingly complex world, where technological advancements challenge traditional notions of trust and commitment, the mystique of the promise deepens, inviting us to reflect on its profound impact on individual agency and our shared future. Is a promise truly unbreakable?, and what are the ethical implications?