The philosophical and ethical themes discussed in Rameau’s Nephew, attempt to piece together the puzzles of human nature. One feature of the human experience debated is virtue. The idea of virtue, or living in a virtuous way, depends upon how one views pleasure. Rameau’s bohemian lifestyle and outlook on life leads him to many self-indulgent pleasures. He portrays a loud voice that preaches about the animated, gypsy-like life he leads. The Philosopher, on …showed first 75 words of 1235 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1235 total…something deeper than what appears on the surface. People indulge in pleasures, which to some might me virtuous acts that nourish one’s pride or dignity. Rameau and the Philosopher’s contrasting views provide for an interesting discussion, “I have no use for your felicity or for the good life of a handful of visionaries like you,” (p.70). The ethical debate ends with no agreement and no definite answers to the mysteries behind human motives.