Exploring ethics through a philosophical lens, Stephen Darwall challenges students to engage with fundamental questions relevant to human existence. Key themes include the essence of value and moral duty, the concepts of freedom and choice, and the pursuit of human flourishing. The text also delves into critiques of morality and emphasizes the significance of relationships in shaping a meaningful life.
Exploring the concept of welfare, the book introduces a "rational care theory of welfare" that redefines our understanding of what constitutes human well-being. Stephen Darwall argues that a deeper comprehension of welfare is crucial for ethical philosophy and everyday considerations. By addressing the often-overlooked aspects of welfare, he highlights how this knowledge can significantly influence our perceptions of what truly benefits individuals and society.
The essays delve into the concept of second-personal morality, emphasizing mutual accountability and the authority to make demands of one another. Darwall showcases how this framework can effectively clarify various topics within moral, political, and legal philosophy, offering fresh insights into complex ethical discussions.
This magisterial study tells the story of a new way of doing ethics, starting in the seventeenth century, that was based on secular ideas of human psychology and universal accountability. It also shows that this modern approach remains relevant to us today and that it has a vibrant future.