Oxford University Press Principles of Moral Philosophy: Classic and Contemporary Approaches

Principles of Moral Philosophy: Classic and Contemporary Approaches covers all the major theories in normative ethics--relativism, egoism, divine command theory, natural law, Kantian ethics, consequentialism, pluralism, social contract theory, virtue ethics, the ethics of care, and particularism--and also includes sections on applied ethics and metaethics. It provides students with a balanced introduction to an array of approaches to topics in normative ethics, offering traditional theories alongside criticisms of them. The readings are enhanced by a variety of pedagogical features including a general introduction, an introduction to each reading, study questions after each reading, and a glossary of key terms. With one-third of its contemporary readings authored by women, Principles of Moral Philosophy is the most inclusive and balanced normative ethics reader available. A password-protected Instructor's Manual is available on the book's Ancillary Resource Center. Review "Principles of Moral Philosophy is a superior book for ethics classes. The introduction complements the book's structure very well, preparing students for each new ethical theory and showing how they fare against each other. The book also offers readings in applied ethics. The greater number of selections both by women and against tradition is a strength of the book."--Joshua Johnston, Auburn University "This anthology covers an impressive range of central topics in normative ethics."--Fernando Zapata, Hunter College, City University of New York "Cahn and Forcehimes have compiled excellent readings in Principles of Moral Philosophy, including sections on egoism, divine command, and relativism. This volume is strong in its treatment of consequentialism and Kantian ethics and also includes an engaging section on applied ethics."--Paul Pistone, Palomar College "This concise collection of essential readings provides the perfect collection for a class focused on normative ethical theory. It maintains the importance of historical sources without compromising the breadth of contemporary literature. The introduction does a great job of introducing the role of reason, principle, and justification in normative ethics. Turning to these classic writings will provide a rich and comprehensive introductory ethics course."--Kenneth Shockley, University at Buffalo, State University of New York "The strengths of Principles of Moral Philosophy include its breadth (which isn't overwhelming) and the mix of historical and contemporary readings. To date, there hasn't been anything to compete with Timmons' Conduct and Character, and this does. It also has greater breadth at a better price point."--Ellen M. Maccarone, Gonzaga University "This is a very good collection that covers the important theories effectively. The selections are very strong, with a nice balance of classic or well-known pieces and newer or less-often-used ones. The introduction does a nice job of introducing the basic questions of normative ethics in a way that illustrates how philosophical questions can arise in familiar and even quotidian contexts. It also introduces more technical vocabulary effectively and naturally and without making things too difficult. It functions rather like Timmons' introduction to Conduct and Character, though it probably works better."--Dennis Arjo, Johnson County Community College "I like that Principles of Moral Philosophy takes a pro/con approach to the different topics it addresses. It includes most of the standard primary source texts and contains some promising secondary articles on Kant and Aristotle."--Greg Lynch, North Central College About the Author Steven M. Cahn is Professor of Philosophy at The City University of New York Graduate Center. He is the author or editor of more than fifty books. Most recently, he coauthored Happiness and Goodness: Philosophical Reflections on Living Well (2015). Dr. Cahn is the editor of The World of Philos