Living Together: Inventing Moral Science

Moral philosophy is more fundamental than political theory, as it focuses on questions of how to live in a community. David Schmidtz argues that theorizing about how to live together should take its cue from contemporary moral philosophy's attempts to go beyond formal theory and ask which principles have a history of being organizing principles of actual thriving communities. Justice evolved as a device for grounding peace in the mutual recognition that everyone has their own life to live and the right and responsibility to decide for themselves what to want. Any understanding of justice should be grounded in observable fact.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 08 June 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Moral philosophy and political theory are two interconnected fields that have been debated for centuries. While some argue that moral philosophy is more foundational than political theory, others suggest that the latter is more fundamental. In this essay, we will explore the argument that moral philosophy is more foundational than political theory.

One reason why moral philosophy is more foundational than political theory is that it deals with the fundamental questions of human existence. Moral philosophy seeks to understand what is right and wrong, good and bad, and how we should live our lives in accordance with these values. Political theory, on the other hand, deals with the organization and governance of society. While political theory is important for determining how we should live together in communities, it does not address the fundamental questions of human morality.

Another reason why moral philosophy is more foundational than political theory is that it deals with the nature of human beings and their relationships with each other. Moral philosophy seeks to understand the nature of human morality and how it is shaped by our experiences, our emotions, and our cognitive abilities. Political theory, on the other hand, often focuses on the institutions and structures of society, such as government, law, and democracy, and how they are designed to promote certain values or interests.

However, it is important to note that moral philosophy and political theory are not mutually exclusive. Both fields can be used to address the fundamental questions of human existence and to promote social justice and equality. For example, moral philosophy can provide the framework for political theory by identifying the principles and values that should guide the organization and governance of society. Political theory can also be used to promote moral values and principles by advocating for policies that reflect these values.

In conclusion, moral philosophy is more foundational than political theory because it deals with the fundamental questions of human existence and the nature of human beings and their relationships with each other. While political theory is important for determining how we should live together in communities, it does not address the fundamental questions of human morality. By integrating moral philosophy into political theory, we can create a more just and equitable society that promotes the values of human dignity, equality, and social justice.

Weight: 434g
Dimension: 215 x 145 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197658505