New Perspectives on Moral Change: Anthropologists and Philosophers Engage with Transformations of Life Worlds

The world is changing rapidly, and this volume discusses how to cope with and understand the moral changes that come with it. It brings together anthropologists and philosophers to explore how norms, concepts, emotions, moral frameworks, and forms of personhood change.

Format: Hardback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 12 August 2022
Publisher: Berghahn Books

The world we inhabit is a dynamic and ever-evolving realm, characterized by profound transformations in climate change, reshaping gender notions, emerging concerns about food consumption, novel forms of family life, and groundbreaking technological advancements. These sweeping changes have a profound impact on the very essence of our existence, raising urgent questions about our ability to adapt and comprehend the moral implications inherent in these shifts. In response to this pressing need, this groundbreaking volume emerges as the first to explicitly focus on moral change as a distinct phenomenon. It brings together a distinguished group of anthropologists and philosophers, united by their shared passion for exploring and theorizing the profound transformations that occur in norms, concepts, emotions, moral frameworks, and forms of personhood.

Within the pages of this volume, readers embark on a captivating journey that delves into the intricacies of moral evolution. The authors employ a multidisciplinary approach, drawing upon insights from various fields such as anthropology, philosophy, sociology, psychology, and more. Through their thoughtful and nuanced discussions, they shed light on the mechanisms and processes that drive moral change, illuminating the factors that shape our moral judgments, values, and behaviors.

One of the key themes explored in this volume is the notion of cultural relativism, which challenges the notion of universal moral principles. The authors argue that moral judgments are deeply intertwined with cultural contexts and that understanding moral change requires a nuanced appreciation of the diverse cultural landscapes that shape human behavior. They explore the ways in which cultural norms, values, and beliefs evolve over time, and how these changes impact individuals and societies as a whole.

Another important aspect of the volume is the exploration of the role of emotions in moral change. The authors argue that emotions play a crucial role in shaping our moral judgments and that they can be both a source of moral strength and weakness. They examine the ways in which emotions influence our moral reasoning, the emotions that are most commonly associated with moral behavior, and the strategies that individuals and societies can employ to manage and regulate their emotions in the context of moral change.

The authors also address the issue of moral frameworks, which provide a structure for organizing and interpreting moral judgments. They explore the ways in which moral frameworks evolve and adapt over time, and how they are influenced by cultural, social, and individual factors. They examine the strengths and limitations of different moral frameworks, and the challenges that arise when these frameworks are confronted with new ethical dilemmas.

Furthermore, the volume delves into the profound transformations that occur in forms of personhood as a result of moral change. The authors argue that moral evolution is not merely a matter of individual behavior but also a transformation of the social and cultural structures that shape our identities. They explore the ways in which individuals negotiate the changing boundaries of their identities, the challenges that arise from these changes, and the strategies that individuals and societies can employ to foster positive and inclusive forms of personhood.

In conclusion, this volume is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of moral philosophy and anthropology. It offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of moral change, providing a rich tapestry of insights and perspectives that will be of interest to scholars, researchers, and policymakers alike. By bringing together anthropologists and philosophers, this volume fosters a dialogue that transcends disciplinary boundaries, paving the way for a deeper understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of moral evolution. As we navigate the rapidly changing world around us, it is more crucial than ever to engage in thoughtful and rigorous exploration of the moral changes that are shaping our lives. This volume serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to navigate the ethical challenges of our time and build a more just and equitable society.

Weight: 502g
Dimension: 158 x 235 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800735972