Skill in Ancient Ethics: The Legacy of China, Greece and Rome

This collection explores the significance of skill in ancient ethics, including Socrates' search for expertise in virtue, Aristotle's delineation of the politike techne, the Stoics' 'art of life,' and ancient Chinese ethics. It demonstrates how skill has been an ethical touchstone from the beginning of philosophical thought, divided into six sections on Plato, Aristotle, the Stoics, Mencius and Xunzi, the Mohists and Zhuangzi, and comparative perspectives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Skill has played a central role in ancient ethics, as demonstrated by the pursuits of figures such as Socrates, who sought expertise in virtue, the Republic's emphasis on the "craft of justice," Aristotle's exploration of the "politike techne," the Stoics' "art of life," and ancient Chinese ethics. This comprehensive collection explores the significance of skill across various philosophical traditions, including Plato, Aristotle, the Stoics, Mencius, Xunzi, the Mohists, and Zhuangzi. Divided into six sections—Plato, Aristotle, the Stoics, Mencius, Xunzi, the Mohists, and Zhuangzi—world-leading philosophers examine the role of skill in the thought of traditional figures as well as lesser-known philosophers such as Carneades and Antipater, and texts such as the Zhuangzi.

Through their insights, the seventeen contributors illustrate how skill, expertise, and "know-how" are essential to and foundational within ancient ethical thought. This collection serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the value of cross-cultural philosophy today, as it highlights the interconnectedness of ethical principles across different cultures and time periods.

Weight: 631g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350267411