The Routledge Handbook of Practical Reason

The Routledge Handbook of Practical Reason is a comprehensive guide to practical reason, covering its history, theories, and applications in ethics and metaethics. It is divided into five parts and includes contributions from renowned experts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 576 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Over the past few decades, the realm of practical reason has emerged as a central focus in ethics and metaethics, captivating the attention of scholars worldwide. In this regard, The Routledge Handbook of Practical Reason stands as a remarkable and pioneering resource, serving as the inaugural volume in its field. Comprising thirty-six chapters authored by an international team of esteemed contributors, this comprehensive handbook offers a thorough exploration of this captivating and distinctive subject area. The Handbook is organized into five distinct parts, each dedicated to exploring different aspects of practical reason:

Foundational Matters: This section delves into the foundational considerations and theoretical foundations of practical reason. It explores the historical development of practical reason in philosophy, examines its relationship with other philosophical disciplines, and discusses key concepts and theories related to practical reason.

Practical Reason in the History of Philosophy: This part examines the role of practical reason in the philosophical tradition, exploring the contributions of influential thinkers such as Aristotle, Kant, Hegel, and others. It explores the philosophical debates surrounding practical reason, its implications for moral and ethical decision-making, and its relevance to contemporary philosophical discussions.

Philosophy of Practical Reason as Action Theory and Moral Psychology: This section explores practical reason as a theory of action and moral psychology. It examines how practical reason informs our understanding of human behavior, moral motivation, and the nature of moral responsibility. It also discusses the relationship between practical reason and other theoretical frameworks, such as rational choice theory and moral psychology.

Philosophy of Practical Reason as Theory of Practical Normativity: This part examines practical reason as a theory of practical normativity. It explores how practical reason guides our moral judgments, ethical decisions, and the development of practical norms and values. It discusses the criteria for evaluating the validity and rationality of practical norms and the challenges associated with applying practical reason in real-world situations.

Philosophy of Practical Reason as the Theory of Practical Rationality: This section explores practical reason as a theory of practical rationality. It examines how practical reason enables us to make informed and rational decisions in complex and uncertain situations. It discusses the nature of practical rationality, the criteria for determining the rationality of actions, and the role of practical reason in navigating the complexities of everyday life.

In addition to the thirty-six chapters, The Routledge Handbook of Practical Reason includes two chapters by the late Derek Parfit, renowned for his contributions to metaethics and philosophy of action. These chapters, titled "Objectivism about Reasons" and "Normative Non-Naturalism," provide further insights into the philosophical landscape of practical reason.

The Routledge Handbook of Practical Reason is an indispensable resource for philosophy students and researchers in metaethics, philosophy of action, action theory, ethics, and the history of philosophy. It offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the field, providing a wealth of knowledge and insights that will deepen their understanding of practical reason and its significance in contemporary philosophical discourse. Whether one is a novice or an experienced scholar, this handbook will undoubtedly serve as a valuable guide and a catalyst for further exploration and inquiry.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367695408