Geoffrey Scarre Book order

The book argues that contemporary individuals can legitimately pass moral judgment on historical figures, despite the differing social and cultural contexts. It explores the complexities of moral evaluation across time, addressing how modern perspectives can inform our understanding of past actions and ethics. Through this lens, it challenges the notion that historical distance renders moral assessments invalid, advocating for the relevance of present-day values in evaluating historical conduct.

Focusing on the evolution and current state of utilitarian ethics, Geoffrey Scarre examines its relevance in contemporary moral discussions. He acknowledges that while utilitarianism has its flaws, its principles continue to hold significance in today's ethical landscape, suggesting a nuanced understanding of its impact on moral philosophy.

Exploring the essence of courage, this book delves into its historical significance and cultural perceptions. It questions whether courage is universally valued or culturally specific and examines the gendered portrayal of bravery as a masculine trait. The author analyzes courage from multiple perspectives, considering it as both an emotion and a capability, and discusses its psychological and physical dimensions. Through these inquiries, the book seeks to provide a deeper understanding of why courage remains a highly esteemed virtue across societies.

First published in 1859, John Stuart Mill's On Liberty has exerted an enormous influence on philosophical and political thought. This title is part of Continuum's Reader's Guides that offers an introduction to this classic work of philosophy.

Exploring the nature of moral evils, this book delves into human responses such as forgiveness and punishment, addressing the complexities they entail. The author advocates for a utilitarian perspective on forgiveness, emphasizing its role in healing from harm. Additionally, the text examines the virtues of mercy, the implications of revenge, and the justification for judicial punishment, particularly regarding war criminals. With a thorough review of existing literature, it offers fresh insights into an increasingly relevant ethical discourse, appealing to philosophers and political thinkers alike.

Exploring the complexities of moral responsibility in the context of the Holocaust, this collection features contributions from leading moral philosophers. Key themes include the uniqueness of the Holocaust, the psychology of perpetrators and victims, and the implications of genocide on culture. The book addresses forgiveness and the ideological underpinnings of extreme evil with analytical rigor, making it a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in moral theory, applied ethics, and Holocaust studies, as well as those seeking to understand broader ethical issues related to Nazism and intolerance.