Agency, Morality and Law

The book argues that law possesses the normative force it requires to direct our actions through Alan Gewirth's Principle of Generic Consistency (PGC), which locates the existence of universally applicable moral norms in the concept of agency.

Format: Hardback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 12 January 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This book delves into a profound and crucial question that has far-reaching implications for the philosophy of law and the very concept of law itself. It argues that this seemingly innocuous question holds immense significance and demands our attention. The book posits a position rooted in the secular natural law tradition, and in doing so, it directly confronts the two key criteria that define this position: Firstly, a firm commitment to the existence of a supreme moral principle is essential. Secondly, any supreme moral principle must be discernible through the power of human reason.

The book embarks on a compelling journey to establish the validity of Alan Gewirth's Principle of Generic Consistency (PGC). Through a dialectically necessary argument, it demonstrates how the PGC provides the foundation for the existence of universally applicable moral norms. By embracing the concept of agency, the book establishes a unified hierarchy of practical reason, where legal norms find their place. It follows that for law to effectively guide our actions, moral permissibility must be aligned with the principles of the PGC.

This strong theory of natural law is robustly defended throughout the book, confronting both moral skeptics and positions within contemporary legal positivism. The author meticulously examines the arguments and counterarguments, presenting a compelling case for the PGC's validity. The book offers a comprehensive exploration of the philosophical and legal implications of its findings, shedding light on the role of law in shaping our behavior and society.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable contribution to the field of law and philosophy. It challenges our assumptions and provides a fresh perspective on the nature of law and its role in guiding our actions. Through its rigorous analysis and compelling arguments, it offers a strong theory of natural law that is both philosophically compelling and practically relevant. This book will be of interest to scholars, students, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the law and its significance in shaping our world.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509947683