A Practical Companion to Ethics is an accessibly written, concise introduction to the basic attitudes and skills that make ethics work, like thinking for oneself, creative and integrative problem-solving, and keeping an open mind. This unique volume illuminates the broad kinds of practical intelligence required in moral judgment, complementing the narrower theoretical considerations that often dominate ethics courses. It offers practical instruction in problem-solving by demonstrating how to frame an ethical problem and deal effectively with ethical disagreements. This book also addresses issues of the heart--the call to responsiveness and care that underlies formal ethical theories. Appendices offer students advice about writing papers and offer instructors a range of creative and participatory ways to teach ethics. The optimistic tone and brisk pace of the narrative provide an entertaining and intelligent guide to "everyday" morality. This highly practical volume is ideal for courses in introductory ethics, with applications in any course related to critical thinking and applied ethics.
3.5 rounded to 3! It’s been more than a year since I’ve limited myself to only rate and review the more serious non-fiction books only after the second read but in this case, I’m reviewing it now as I’m postponing the second read to a time when I will have read a book on theoretical ethics. This book is written in a way that makes it possible to be read even without any prior knowledge in the field but I feel knowing the basics of normative (theoretical ethics) would do good on better understanding and analyzing the applied ethics even if not a prerequisite to it. Meanwhile I want to mention how helpful I found the points in last chapter regarding the tips on writing a paper on ethics.
The main thing I got out of this book is to be aware of, and avoid, polarizing views on an issue. Simplistic "pro" and "con" approaches lead to seemingly irresolvable conflict and usually do not reflect the full complexity of issues. A better approach is to search for common values, brainstorm for creative solutions, and find ways to address the underlying problem.
For example, instead of getting caught in the "pro-life"/"pro-choice" rhetoric, a national organization called "Search for Common Ground" has activists on both sides of the issue working "together for common goals such as reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies in the first place." (p.66) I am reminded of one of my favorite bumper stickers: "Against abortion? Promote birth control!"
Great book that empowers you with the creative authority to do better, live well and connect more. Love the way he opens your mind and gives you strategic ways to engage with others.
The title says it all. This is not an introduction to ethics nor is it a summary of every ethical issue. What it is, is a reflection on the practical implications of ethics. It is written in a very accessible way.