Ignorance and Moral Responsibility

Michael J. Zimmerman looks at the link between ignorance and moral responsibility, arguing that to be blameworthy, one must have known that one was acting wrongfully at some point. He examines and refines the Argument from Ignorance, suggesting that in many cases, the agent has an excuse for the wrongdoing.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 30 August 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Michael J. Zimmerman delves into the intricate relationship between ignorance and moral responsibility. He begins by presenting a tragic case, one in which numerous individuals unwittingly played a part, raising the crucial question of whether their ignorance can excuse them from accountability for the unfortunate events that transpired. Through a comprehensive examination of the case, Zimmerman explores the core concepts of moral responsibility, ignorance, and control, all of which play pivotal roles in his argument. He then applies the insights gained from this investigation to address the question of whether and how someone can be held responsible for behavior resulting from culpable ignorance, negligence, recklessness, or the profound moral ignorance often associated with villains.

The Argument from Ignorance suggests that in many such cases, the agent possesses a valid justification for their wrongdoing. This unsettling conclusion prompts challenges to the argument in the final chapter. While some of these challenges hold merit, it is ultimately argued that the revised version of the argument stands resilient against them.

Throughout his exploration, Zimmerman offers thought-provoking insights and raises important questions about the nature of moral responsibility and the boundaries of ignorance. His work contributes to our understanding of the complex interplay between these two fundamental aspects of human behavior.

Weight: 728g
Dimension: 241 x 163 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192859570