Hobbes and the Two Faces of Ethics

This book challenges received interpretations of Hobbes and his historical significance, revealing the transition from the ancient Greek to the modern conception of ethics and its relevance to current debates about normativity, reasons, and responsibility.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 04 November 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This book delves into the intricate examination of Hobbes' philosophy, exploring his ideas in the context of both the historical evolution of ethics and the contemporary frameworks developed in normativity studies. By undertaking this comprehensive analysis, Arash Abizadeh aims to challenge prevailing interpretations of Hobbes and his historical significance. Through his meticulous research, Abizadeh unveils the fundamental distinction that underpins Hobbes' ethical framework: the divide between prudential reasons of the good, articulated through natural laws that prescribe the means of self-preservation, and reasons of the right or justice, encompassing contractual obligations that we owe to others.

Abizadeh demonstrates how this distinction marks a pivotal moment in the transition from the ancient Greek to the modern conception of ethics. He further highlights the relevance of Hobbes' thought to ongoing debates surrounding normativity, reasons, and responsibility. This book appeals to a wide range of scholars, including Hobbes enthusiasts, historians of ethics, moral philosophers, and political theorists. By delving into the depth of Hobbes' philosophy, Abizadeh offers a fresh perspective that sheds light on his profound contributions to the field of ethics and his enduring influence on contemporary thought.

Weight: 446g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108404877
Edition number: New ed