Lectures on the History of Moral PhilosophyThe premier political philosopher of his day, John Rawls, in three decades of teaching at Harvard, has had a profound influence on the way philosophical ethics is approached and understood today. This book brings together the lectures that inspired a generation of students--and a regeneration of moral philosophy. It invites readers to learn from the most noted exemplars of modern moral philosophy with the inspired guidance of one of contemporary philosophy's most noteworthy practitioners and teachers. Central to Rawls's approach is the idea that respectful attention to the great texts of our tradition can lead to a fruitful exchange of ideas across the centuries. In this spirit, his book engages thinkers such as Leibniz, Hume, Kant, and Hegel as they struggle in brilliant and instructive ways to define the role of a moral conception in human life. The lectures delineate four basic types of moral reasoning: perfectionism, utilitarianism, intuitionism, and--the ultimate focus of Rawls's course--Kantian constructivism. Comprising a superb course on the history of moral philosophy, they also afford unique insight into how John Rawls has transformed our view of this history. |
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accordance action agents aims apply basic believe categorical imperative character CI-procedure complete conception concerned consider constitution contrast course Critique deliberation desires determined discuss distinction doctrine duties effects example existence explain expressed fact feeling first formulation freedom further give given happiness Hegel highest human Hume Hume’s idea ideal important inclinations individuals institutions interest judgment justice Kant Kant’s kind knowledge lectures Leibniz matter maxim means mind moral law motives nature necessary needs object ourselves paragraph particular passions perfect persons philosophy point of view political possible present principles priori procedure psychological pure practical reason question rational realm of ends refers reflection regard relation religion requirements role says seems sense simply social world society theoretical things thought tion true truth understanding universal virtue wants whole