James Franklin is a British philosopher and author whose work primarily engages with ethics, freedom, and the philosophy of mind. Through his writings, he delves into complex questions of human existence, emphasizing critical thinking and rational argumentation. His prose is distinguished by its rigorous logic and profound exploration of moral dilemmas. Franklin's contributions offer a valuable perspective to contemporary philosophical discourse, resonating with readers who seek thought-provoking and challenging ideas.
Scenes from Australian Catholic Life
Rich in research, this book delves into the intersection of the Catholic Church and Australian society, uncovering lesser-known historical aspects. It provides valuable insights that can stimulate engaging discussions, making it a significant contribution to understanding the Church's influence and role within the context of Australia's social fabric.
The death of a person is a tragedy, while the explosion of a lifeless galaxy is merely a rework. This moral distinction is rooted in the intrinsic worth of humans, which makes their fate significant. Australian philosopher James Franklin argues that ethics is founded on this worth rather than merely on right and wrong actions, rights, and virtues. He posits that human moral worth stems from unique properties that set humans apart from other beings, such as rationality, consciousness, the capacity for reasoned action, emotional depth, love, and individuality. This complex combination renders humans the "piece of work" described by Hamlet as "How noble in reason, how infinite in faculty." Through clear prose and informed philosophical argument, Franklin establishes a foundation for ethics based on the equal worth of persons, making ethics objective and resistant to relativist critiques, as it is grounded in the metaphysical truth about humanity. This work appeals to those who feel that ongoing debates about ethical dilemmas and principles often overlook what truly matters ethically: the intrinsic value of human beings.
The 1959 Cuban Revolution remains one of the signal events of modern political history. A tiny island, once a de facto colony of the United States, declared its independence, not just from the imperial behemoth ninety miles to the north, but also from global capitalism itself.
Known as the 'father' of electrical engineering, Michael Faraday is one of the best known scientific figures of all time. In this Very Short Introduction, Frank A.J.L James looks at Faraday's life and works, examining the institutional context in which he lived and worked, his scientific research, and his continuing legacy in science today.