The value of moral philosophy

Article Abstract:

Richard Posner's lack of admiration for the inevitable quest of moral philosophers in his 1997 Holmes Lectures is a pity. Posner misunderstands the discipline of moral philosophy as well as its actual and potential uses. Exploring questions of the ends and goals of humanity must be an engrossing endeavor, personally as well as professionally. Such exploration is guided by reasoned thought but should not be limited by the likelihood that some sort of bleak ideal of rationality is impossible to attain.

---

Philosophy matters

Article Abstract:

Richard Posner in his 1997 Holmes Lectures demonstrated great rhetorical skill while saying little to support his thesis that moral theory has no place in legal decisionmaking. His stated targets were limited to those in academe associated with left liberal beliefs, but his thesis must necessarily be more general. That thesis is incoherent. Additionally, Posner does not define key terms and his empirical assertion that moral theory does not influence society is wrong.

---

Darwin's new bulldog

Article Abstract:

Richard Posner's argument that moral theory has no place in legal decisionmaking can be explained by what can be termed his Darwinian pragmatism which underlies his concomitant professions of moral relativism and making of moral judgments. Posner's arguments belie his secluded morality. They demonstrate that morality is necessary and indestructible.

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: The abiding relevance of federalism to U.S. foreign relations. Customary international law as federal common law: a critique of the modern position
• Abstracts: Huge fees don't foil his company. Directing change at ITT industries
• Abstracts: The quest for privacy. None of your business. Encryption takes center stage: is government a trusty neighbor?
• Abstracts: Third generation of corporate charter sales. Goldilocks meets Private Letter Ruling 9809051. Partial liquidations may stage a comeback
• Abstracts: He insures that legal bills are fair. Pension fund GC: not a retiring sort. Daughter counsels father, CEO brother; family ties persuade a lawyer to take on general counsel role

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.