Ghostless Machine
Overcoming polarization with philosophy

Hi, I’m Ariel Pontes and this is my blog, where I write about atheism, philosophy, science, and sociopolitical issues. I have an MA in analytic philosophy and I am active in several secular-humanist organizations in Brazil, Romania, and at the international level. Read more →
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Latest posts
Moral illusions
Why disagreements don’t prove morality is relative
Natural rights and moral desert
Why we should avoid unverifiable moral claims
A forgiving utilitarianism
Why utilitarianism is not as demanding as you may think
Utilitarianism is not unfair
Why exploiting minorities is not utilitarian
Pragmatic utilitarianism
Why some types of suffering deserve more attention than others
Rule utilitarianism
Should we ever break rules for the greater good?
The moral relevance of intentions
Why intentions are important even for utilitarians
Cultivating virtues is utilitarian
Virtues are traits that contribute to a better society
Are pain and pleasure all that matters?
What utilitarians mean when they promote pleasure over pain