Human Morality [Paperback]

Samuel Scheffler (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 16, 1993 | ISBN-10: 0195085647 | ISBN-13: 978-0195085648

Some people believe that the demands of morality coincide with the requirements of an enlightened self-interest. Others believe that morality is diametrically opposed to considerations of self-interest. This book argues that there is another position, intermediate between these extremes, which makes better sense of the totality of our moral thought and practice. Scheffler elaborates this position via an examination of morality's content, scope, authority, and deliberative role. Although conflicts between morality and self-interest do arise, according to this position, nevertheless morality is fundamentally a reasonable and humane phenomenon. Moreover, the psychological bases of effective moral motivation have sources deep within the self, and morally motivated individuals try to shape their own interests so as to avoid conflict with morality. Since human practices and institutions help to determine the prevalence of these motives, and since in this and other ways they influence the degree to which conflicts between morality and self-interest actually occur, the extent of such conflict is not fixed or immutable, and is in part a social and political issue.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Superb! Clear and accessible."--Chris Slupik, University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh

"An immensely rich book....The book is extremely careful, resourceful, and reasonable. It is essential reading for everyone interested in ethics."--Mind

"This book shows us what shape a humane morality might take. The author does not shrink from noticing the zest with which humans regularly inflict pain and suffering on each other. Yet he resolutely holds out the hope for a form of life that is at once recognizably human and better than we have had. In its thoughtfulness and concern, this is a humane and admirable work."--Journal of Philosophy

"This concise, clear, and careful book raises a wide range of important issues about the relations between morality and self-interest. Scheffler raises old debates to a new level of precision and presents positions and arguments that are original, important, and persuasive.... A major contribution to ethics, and I recommend it strongly. Future discussions of all of these issues cannot ignore and should be improved by Scheffler's distinctions, arguments, and insights."--Philosophical Books

"Interesting, erudite, and very wide ranging."--Times Higher Education Supplement

About the Author

Samuel Scheffler is at University of California, Berkeley.

Product Details

• Paperback: 160 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (September 16, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0195085647
• ISBN-13: 978-0195085648
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.5 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,529,606 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

7 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An important comment on morality, May 26, 2004

By 

Carolyn M. Pierce "cpierce" (Los Angeles, CA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Human Morality (Paperback)

While working towards the completion of my thesis, I was thrilled when a professor suggested I take a look at the work of the accomplished Samuel Scheffler. This meaningful and insightful book was invaluable to my work and study, helping me to better analyze the role of human nature in morality. It should be required reading for all philosophy students.

However, I feel that this book has extrapolations beyond scholastic study. Scheffler addresses the perceived conflict between morality and self interest, in a way that is helpful to the average citizen in daily life. While other theories of morality levy illogical and often unimplementable evaluation methods, 'Human Morality' looks at the question in a practical, meaningful way.

Whether working towards a masters degree or just looking for some afternoon reading, this book will serve to challenge the mind of the astute reader. Highly recommended.