Dear Prudence: The Nature and Normativity of Prudential Discourse

Philosophers have long debated the factors that contribute to a good life, but prudential discourse, which concerns the evaluation of what is good and bad for us and what we should do, has received less attention. Guy Fletcher's book "Dear Prudence: The Nature and Normativity of Prudential Discourse" aims to explore the nature of prudential discourse, argue that it is normative and authoritative, and show that it is worthy of further attention due to its intrinsic interest and its implications for meta-normative questions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 08 April 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Philosophers have delved into the depths of human existence, seeking to understand what brings about a fulfilling life and the extent to which morality and self-interest can coexist. While much attention has been devoted to these profound inquiries, we have paid relatively little attention to meta-prudential questions, which revolve around the discourse of prudence—the contemplation and discussion of what is good and bad for us, what contributes to our well-being, and what we ought to do from a prudential standpoint. This surprising situation warrants further exploration, as prudence, at its core, appears to be a normative form of discourse that demands our attention. Moreover, it presents a stark contrast to moral discourse, which has been extensively theorized in meta-ethics.

In his book, Dear Prudence: The Nature and Normativity of Prudential Discourse, Guy Fletcher sets out to accomplish three broad aims. Firstly, he delves into the nature of prudential discourse, exploring its essence and characteristics. Secondly, Fletcher argues that prudential discourse holds a normative and authoritative status, akin to moral discourse. Thirdly, he endeavors to demonstrate that prudential discourse deserves explicit attention not only due to its intrinsic interest but also because it sheds light on the broader meta-normative realm.

The book begins by examining the nature of prudential discourse. Fletcher argues that prudential discourse is concerned with practical decision-making and the pursuit of well-being. It involves the exploration of values, goals, and the means to achieve them, taking into account the constraints and opportunities presented by the world around us. Prudential discourse, according to Fletcher, is not merely descriptive but also prescriptive, as it provides guidance on what actions we should take to promote our well-being and achieve our goals.

One of the key insights of the book is Fletcher's argument that prudential discourse is normative and authoritative. He contends that just as moral discourse sets forth ethical principles and norms that guide our behavior, prudential discourse does the same for our practical decisions. Prudential discourse, he argues, is grounded in our rational capacities and our ability to weigh the consequences of our actions. It involves the application of principles and values to guide our choices and ensure that we act in ways that are consistent with our deepest desires and values.

Fletcher also explores the relationship between prudential discourse and moral discourse. He argues that while prudential discourse is concerned with practical decision-making and the pursuit of well-being, moral discourse is concerned with the broader questions of what is right and wrong and what constitutes a good life. Prudential discourse, he suggests, can be seen as a subset of moral discourse, as it focuses on the specific decisions and actions that we take in our daily lives.

In conclusion, Dear Prudence: The Nature and Normativity of Prudential Discourse is a thought-provoking book that sheds light on the nature and significance of prudential discourse. Guy Fletcher's arguments and insights provide a valuable contribution to the philosophical discourse on ethics and practical decision-making. The book encourages us to explore the complexities of prudential discourse and to consider its normative and authoritative nature. By doing so, we can better understand the role of prudence in our lives and the broader ethical and moral implications of our actions.

Weight: 406g
Dimension: 148 x 222 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198858263