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Living Philosophy: An Introduction to Moral Thought
Living An Introduction to Moral Thought, third edition is a thoroughly revised and updated version of its highly successful and popular predecessor. Incorporating several brand new case studies and discussion points, the book introduces central questions in ethical theory to the student and assumes no previous knowledge of philosophy. Each chapter deals with a particular ethical issue and has an accompanying case study designed to encourage discussion. New topics raised include genetically modified organisms (GMO), environmental ethics, bioethics and the human genome, as well as a new chapter on religious and cultural relativism in the light of September 11th. Ray Billington's style is at once refreshing and honest and his approach to the subject is always clear. The coverage of the book is tailored for any introductory course in ethics.
- GenresPhilosophyNonfiction
376 pages, Paperback
First published February 25, 1988
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September 20, 2017
A mostly excellent, comprehensive overview of many major areas of moral/ethical philosophy. Billington's prose is accessible, concise and compelling – I was actually surprised at how enjoyable this is to read considering it was intended as a course textbook (I'm sure we all know the negative stigma of dry, boring or difficult prose associated with these).
I say MOSTLY excellent because, although I can't fault the general quality of his writing and the most of his personal views (some of which he has incorporated into the text at relevant points, usually with great intelligence and to the benefit of the text, contextualising theory in everyday life and general human experience), there are a few moments that betray him. These are when his personal conclusions (opinions) on a topic show with unjustified bias: he fails to back them up with rational argument and balanced evidence. I should reiterate that these moments are rare – in fact, the vast majority of his positions are unusually well presented and reasoned, and I think his own high standards are what make those few slip-ups particularly apparent. Otherwise, I would have given this book 5 stars.
I say MOSTLY excellent because, although I can't fault the general quality of his writing and the most of his personal views (some of which he has incorporated into the text at relevant points, usually with great intelligence and to the benefit of the text, contextualising theory in everyday life and general human experience), there are a few moments that betray him. These are when his personal conclusions (opinions) on a topic show with unjustified bias: he fails to back them up with rational argument and balanced evidence. I should reiterate that these moments are rare – in fact, the vast majority of his positions are unusually well presented and reasoned, and I think his own high standards are what make those few slip-ups particularly apparent. Otherwise, I would have given this book 5 stars.
Displaying 1 of 1 review