On Ernst Bloch’s Moral Theory

Abstract

This article describes the origin of Bloch’s moral theory, which was formulated partly as a response to Simmel’s moral relativism. It also shows that Bloch’s theory is a coherent example of what Charles Taylor calls “expressivism,” a contemporary philosophical attitude which emphasizes the creation of values, with its transgressive character. Finally, the article addresses some shortcomings of Bloch’s expressivist moral theory, and emphasizes the necessity this author felt to complete it with norms ensuring human dignity.