Ethics after Babel: The languages of morals and their discontents - Softcover

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In the first third of this ambitious book Stout explores theoretical ethics, arguing persuasively against nihilism, skepticism, and relativism. He then sympathetically considers a revised divine command theory that withstands the stock criticisms of nonbelievers. A bonus chapter brilliantly illuminates the basis of common attitudes toward cannibalism and sodomy; Stout argues that a virtue-based ethics can explain them and is best for a society with pluralistic values. His final section elaborates details. Stout's procedure throughout is to critique other philosophers, with whom he presupposes considerable familiarity. For subject collections. Sidney Gendin, Eastern Michigan Univ., Ypsilanti
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.

To understand the messages of, say, a Jerry Falwell, Elie Wiesel or Mario Cuomo, we first have to understand the moral language in which they frame them asserts this Princeton professor of religion. But Stout (The Flight from Authority) is no moral relativist. His "modest pragmatism" throws down a gauntlet to nihilists and skeptics who, in his opinion, are cowed by the sheer diversity of modern society. As he reflects on the role of institutions and beliefs in shoring up the moral framework of our fragile republic, he drives home his central message: religious ethics, far from being something we can ignore, are the litmus test of any secular philosophy. Finding academic theology bankrupt, Stout engages instead in a debate with moral philosophers. His own pragmatism offers scant metaphysical comfort, yet it points the way to a better society. This weighty tome will repay the careful reader.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.