Reasons First

Ethical theory has shifted towards reason in the last five decades, with central theses such as evidentialism and egalitarianism formulated in terms of reasons. Reasons First explores the benefits and burdens of the hypothesis that reasons come first in normative theory, arguing that some of the most important challenges to this idea are themselves the source of some of the most obstinate puzzles in epistemology. Mark Schroeder shows that knowledge provides one of the best cases for the fundamental explanatory power of reasons in normative theory.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 288 pages
\n Publication date: 24 June 2021
\n Publisher: Oxford University Press
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In recent years, ethical theory has witnessed a significant shift towards the centrality of reasons. The term "reasons" has gained widespread usage not only in ethics but also in epistemology, action theory, and numerous related fields. It has become commonplace to see central theses such as evidentialism in epistemology and egalitarianism in political philosophy formulated in terms of reasons. Some even argue that the reason's vocabulary is so valuable precisely because reasons hold analytical and explanatory priority over other normative concepts, placing them at the forefront of normative theorizing.

Reasons First, a comprehensive book by Mark Schroeder, delves into both the advantages and challenges of the hypothesis that reasons should take precedence in normative theory. Schroeder's work spans two decades of research on reasons in ethics and epistemology, and he argues that some of the most significant objections to the idea that reasons could come first are themselves the source of some of the most persistent puzzles in epistemology.

One of the central puzzles in epistemology concerns the role of perceptual experience in providing evidence about the world. Schroeder argues that while reasons are crucial for justifying belief, they cannot account for the evidential value of perceptual experience. He challenges the idea that perceptual experience can provide us with direct knowledge of the external world and suggests that it is primarily valuable for forming beliefs through inference.

Another puzzle revolves around what makes evidence sufficient to justify belief. Schroeder argues that while reasons are essential for justifying belief, they cannot provide a complete solution to this problem. He suggests that other factors, such as the reliability of our cognitive faculties and the context in which we receive evidence, also play a crucial role in determining the evidential value of information.

Despite these challenges, Schroeder argues that reasons still have a fundamental explanatory power in normative theory. He highlights the moral worth of reasons, which he argues is one of the best cases for the fundamental explanatory power of reasons in normative theory. He argues that reasons can help us understand and evaluate moral judgments, as well as guide our actions in ways that promote the well-being of others.

In conclusion, the turn to reasons in ethical theory has brought about significant changes in the way we think about normative concepts. While there are challenges to the idea that reasons should come first, Schroeder's book Reasons First provides a compelling argument for the fundamental explanatory power of reasons in normative theory. By exploring the benefits and burdens of the hypothesis that reasons do indeed come first, Schroeder offers valuable insights into some of the most persistent puzzles in epistemology and demonstrates the importance of reasons in guiding our moral and epistemic judgments.

\n Weight: 638g\n
Dimension: 163 x 241 x 24 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780198868224\n \n