Offense and Offensiveness: A Philosophical Account

This book explores the nature and significance of offense and offensiveness, arguing that we should think of offense as a moralized bad feeling and that we should give claims of both offense and offensiveness more credence than they deserve. It will be of interest to scholars and students working in moral philosophy and moral psychology.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 268 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Offense and offensiveness are complex and multifaceted concepts that have been the subject of much debate and discussion throughout history. In this book, Andrew Sneddon offers a comprehensive study of the nature and significance of offense and offensiveness, incorporating insights from moral philosophy and moral psychology to reconstruct our ordinary ideas and assumptions about these notions.

When someone claims that something is offensive, others are supposed to listen. Why? What is it for something to be offensive? Likewise, it is supposed to matter if someone claims to have been offended. Is this correct? In this book, Andrew Sneddon argues that we should think of offense as a moralized bad feeling. He explains offensiveness in terms of symbolic value, suggesting that we tend to give claims of both offense and offensiveness more credence than they deserve. While it is in principle possible for there to be genuine moral problems of offense and offensiveness, we should expect such problems to be rare.

Offense and offensiveness are deeply intertwined with our social and cultural norms, and they can have significant consequences for individuals and society as a whole. For example, offensive language or imagery can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and discrimination, while offensive behavior can lead to social isolation and violence. At the same time, however, it is important to recognize that not everyone will find the same things offensive, and that the interpretation and perception of offense can be subjective and context-dependent.

In this book, Andrew Sneddon explores a range of topics related to offense and offensiveness, including the nature of moral judgment, the role of empathy and understanding in navigating offensive situations, and the ethical implications of offensive behavior. He also examines the historical and cultural contexts in which offense and offensiveness have evolved, and he offers a critical analysis of the ways in which these concepts have been used and abused in the past.

Offense and Offensiveness: A Philosophical Account will be of interest to scholars and students working in moral philosophy and moral psychology. It provides a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of these complex concepts, and it offers valuable insights into the ways in which we can navigate the challenges of offense and offensiveness in our daily lives.

Weight: 510g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367546670