Reason and Ethics: The Case Against Objective Value

Reason and Ethics argues that all values are subjective and that human affairs can be conducted fruitfully in full awareness of this. It challenges the existence of objective values and suggests that rationality can be rescued without recourse to morality on pragmatic grounds. The book is written in an accessible and engaging style and will be of interest to scholars and students working in metaethics and the generally intellectually curious.

Format: Hardback
Length: 214 pages
Publication date: 02 October 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Reason and Ethics is a groundbreaking work that challenges the notion of objective values and proposes a novel perspective on human affairs. Joel Marks, the author, goes beyond his previous work defending moral skepticism and questions the very existence of objective values. He suggests that while the denial of morality may lead to the relinquishment of rationality, it is not necessary to do so. Marks dismantles the Companions in Guilt argument by conceding the irreality of both morality and logic, yet he manages to preserve rationality on pragmatic grounds.

In his book, Marks offers a positive account of how life can be lived productively without recourse to attributions and assertions of right and wrong, good and bad, and even truth and falsity. He advocates for a more nuanced and practical approach to ethics, one that recognizes the subjective nature of values and encourages individuals to approach moral dilemmas with open-mindedness and empathy.

Reason and Ethics is written in an accessible and engaging style, making it of interest to scholars and students working in metaethics as well as to the generally intellectually curious. The book offers a fresh perspective on ethics that challenges traditional notions and encourages readers to think critically about the ethical implications of their actions and decisions.

In conclusion, Reason and Ethics is a thought-provoking and influential work that challenges the notion of objective values and proposes a more nuanced and practical approach to ethics. By questioning the existence of objective values and advocating for a more empathetic and pragmatic approach, Marks offers a valuable contribution to the field of metaethics and encourages readers to think critically about the ethical implications of their actions and decisions.

Weight: 466g
Dimension: 158 x 235 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367534325