John Kekes is an emeritus professor of philosophy and a research professor whose work primarily engages with ethics and political philosophy. As a noted conservative thinker, his scholarship explores fundamental questions in these fields. His writings offer a distinct perspective on moral and political thought.
In Moderate Conservatism: Reclaiming the Center John Kekes offers a way forward for those who are alarmed by the current state of politics in America. Kekes makes a reasoned case for moderation, the defense of the United States' constitutional democracy, and a criticism of all forms of political extremism. The U.S. political system has endured because the Constitution has guided the balance of the often-conflicting claims of justice, liberty, equality, prosperity, and security on which the well-being of all American citizens depend.
In this book, John Kekes discusses the hard questions we all must face in the course of our lives. How should we respond to evil? Do we owe what our country asks of us? Does it make us better to be ashamed of what we have done? Is it always good to be true to who we are? Do good intentions justify bad actions? John Kekes argues that such questions are hard because reasonable answers to them often conflict. He shows how their conflicts can be resolved and how we can best cope with these problems.
In his latest book, esteemed philosopher John Kekes draws on anthropology, history, and literature in order to help us cope with the common predicaments that plague us as we try to take control of our lives. In each chapter he offers fascinating new ways of thinking about a particular problem that is fundamental to how we live, such as facing difficult choices, uncontrollable contingencies, complex evaluations, the failures of justice, the miasma of boredom, and the inescapable hypocrisies of social life. Kekes considers how we might deal with these predicaments by comparing how others in different times and cultures have approached them. He examines what is good, bad, instructive, and dangerous in the sexually charged politics of the Shilluk, the Hindu caste system, Balinese role-morality, the religious passion of Cortes and Simone Weil, the fate of Colonel Hiromichi Yahara during and after the battle for Okinawa, the ritual human sacrifices of the Aztecs, and the tragedies to which innocence may lead. In doing so, he shakes us out of our deep-seated ways of thinking, enlarging our understanding of the possibilities available to us as we struggle with the problems that stand in the way of how we want to live. The result is a highly interesting journey through time and space that illuminates and helps us cope with some of the most basic predicaments we all face as human beings.
John Kekes offers a response to the growing disenchantment in the Western
world with contemporary life. He defends a realistic view of the human
condition that rejects both facile optimism and gloomy pessimism. While
acknowledging that the scheme of things is indifferent to our fortunes, he
shows that we do have the resources to improve our lives.
The book explores the essential role of enjoyment in achieving a fulfilling life, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a lifestyle that harmonizes personal values with actions. John Kekes advocates for a pluralistic approach to moral thought, encouraging readers to reflect on practical ways to enhance their existence. Through this examination, he seeks to redefine what it means to live well by aligning one's deepest concerns with everyday choices and behaviors.
Focusing on the strengths of contemporary Western democracies, this book delves into the intricacies of their political systems, highlighting their appeal and effectiveness. It examines the components that contribute to their success, providing insights into the mechanisms that make these democracies desirable on a global scale, despite their imperfections. Through a thorough analysis, it aims to enhance the reader's understanding of political art and practice within these frameworks.
John Kekes, a Professor of Philosophy at SUNY Albany, has authored eleven previous works, including his latest titles, "Pluralism in Philosophy: Changing the Subject" and "The Art of Life," both published by Cornell. His academic contributions explore various philosophical themes, showcasing his expertise in the field.
The author presents a critique of the assumptions that lie behind liberal
policies. John Kekes demonstrates that individual autonomy is only one among
the necessary conditions of human well-being and that peace, social cohesion
and a healthy environment are just as important.
