Methods of Ethics (Hackett Classics) - Softcover

Sidgwick, Henry

 
9780915145287: Methods of Ethics (Hackett Classics)

Synopsis

This Hackett edition, first published in 1981, is an unabridged and unaltered republication of the seventh (1907) edition as published by Macmillan and Company, Limited.

From the forward by John Rawls:

In the utilitarian tradition Henry Sidgwick (1838-1900) has an important place. His fundamental work, The Methods of Ethics (first edition 1874, seventh and last edition 1907, here reprinted), is the clearest and most accessible formulation of what we may call 'the classical utilitarian doctorine.' This classical doctrine holds that the ultimate moral end of social and individual action is the greatest net sum of the happiness of all sentient beings. Happinesss is specified (as positive or negative) by the net balance of pleasure over pain, or, as Sidgwick preferred to say, as the net balance of agreeable over disagreeable consciousness. . . .

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Book Description

Published in 1874, Sidgwick's masterpiece argues the utilitarian approach to ethics and presents a systematic and historically sensitive approach to ethical research that influenced utilitarian philosophers well into the twentieth century. It remains a valuable introduction to the philosophy, practice and history of ethics. This reissue includes the 1877 supplement.

About the Author

Henry Sidgwick (May 31, 1838 - August 28,1900) was a professor, philosopher, writer and advocate for women's education. An analytical Utilitarian in his politics, as a philosopher he examined the principles of "ethical hedonism," human behavior and free will. He developed a reputation as an excellent teacher who treated students as equals and was also a member of the Metaphysical Society.

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