Hermeneutic Moral Realism in Psychology: Theory and Practice

Traditional sources of morality are being questioned, and research shows a decline in moral development among younger adults. This book argues that hermeneutic moral realism is the best hope for addressing these challenges and provides practical applications in research, psychotherapy, politics, and publishing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 132 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Traditional sources of morality, such as philosophical ethics, religious standards, and cultural values, are being challenged at a time when we most need moral guidance. Research indicates that while moral direction is essential to our identities, happiness, productivity, and relationships, it is declining in development and use, particularly among younger adults.

In response to these challenges, this book presents hermeneutic moral realism as the best hope for navigating the twenty-first century. It offers a comprehensive understanding of moral realism and explores its practical applications in various fields, including research, psychotherapy, politics, and publishing.

Moral realism is a philosophical perspective that asserts that there are objective moral truths that can be discovered through rational inquiry. It rejects the idea that morality is subjective or relative and believes that there are universal moral principles that apply to all human beings, regardless of their cultural or historical context.

One of the key arguments of hermeneutic moral realism is that it provides a framework for addressing the complex challenges of scientism, individualism, and postmodernism. Scientism, which emphasizes the importance of scientific evidence and empirical research, can lead to a reductionist view of human beings, reducing them to their physical bodies and cognitive processes. Individualism, on the other hand, prioritizes individual freedom and self-expression, which can lead to a disregard for social and moral norms.

Postmodernism, which challenges the authority

The book argues that hermeneutic moral realism is the best hope for meeting the twenty-first century challenges of scientism, individualism, and postmodernism. In addition to providing a thorough understanding of moral realism, the volume also takes preliminary steps toward its application in important practical settings, including research, psychotherapy, politics, and publishing.

Research is one of the key areas where hermeneutic moral realism can be applied. By adopting a moral realist perspective, researchers can approach their work with a commitment to discovering objective moral truths. This can help to ensure that research is conducted ethically and responsibly, and that the results are used to benefit society as a whole.

Psychotherapy is another area where hermeneutic moral realism can be useful. By helping patients to understand and apply moral principles to their lives, therapists can help them to overcome psychological problems and improve their overall well-being.

Politics is another field where hermeneutic moral realism can play a role. By promoting a moral framework that emphasizes the importance of social justice and human rights, politicians can work to create a more just and equitable society.

Publishing is another area where hermeneutic moral realism can be applied. By promoting books and other media that promote moral values and ethical behavior, publishers can help to create a culture that values moral guidance.

In conclusion, hermeneutic moral realism offers a powerful framework for addressing the challenges of the twenty-first century. By providing a comprehensive understanding of moral realism and exploring its practical applications in various fields, this book provides a valuable resource for anyone interested in promoting moral guidance and creating a more just and equitable society.

Weight: 188g
Dimension: 137 x 216 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367567606