Natural and social morals - Carveth Read
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| Natural and social morals |
The book in question is a detailed exploration of moral philosophy, focusing on the substance of the first five chapters which were originally delivered as lectures at the University of London.
The author expresses gratitude to friends who assisted in preparing the material for publication, including Mr. E. S. Thompson and Mr. Thomas Whittaker. The author also acknowledges the influence of certain books, such as Mr. Graham Wallas's "Human Nature in Politics" and Mr. William M'Dougall's "Social Psychology," which have shaped their thinking on the subject.
The author emphasizes the importance of studying morals as a matter of fact and experience, rather than relying solely on abstract ideas. They critique the traditional approach to moral philosophy, likening it to a "shadow-fight" reminiscent of outdated scholastic practices. Instead, the author advocates for a more practical and experiential understanding of ethics.
Throughout the first five chapters, the author delves into various aspects of moral philosophy, drawing on a range of sources and ideas. They explore the complexities of human nature and behavior, considering how social and psychological factors influence moral decision-making. The author also reflects on the role of tradition and language in shaping moral concepts, highlighting the need for a more nuanced and context-specific approach to ethics.
Overall, the book offers a thought-provoking and insightful analysis of moral philosophy, challenging readers to reconsider their assumptions and beliefs about ethics. By grounding their arguments in real-world experiences and observations, the author aims to provide a more practical and relevant perspective on morality.
Some content of the book :
1. Acknowledgments ....... xi
2. The Metaphysics of Nature as prolegomena to Natural and Social
Morals ........ xii
3. Natural and social morals in relation to the metaphysics of ethics . xvi
4. Human Society, essentially co-operative, cannot advance unless the
breed of men is improved. Eugenics . . . xx
5. The principles of heredity assumed in this book, how related to
Mendelism xii
BOOK L— MOEALITY NATURAL TO MAN
CHAPTER I. — PRACTICAL AND THEORETICAL MORALITY
1. Morality in some form is universal amongst men as a condition of
social cohesion ....... 3
2. Misconceptions of Naturalism in Morals ; Morality and Reason . 5
3. Practical Morality, sanctioned by Common Sense, supplies the data
which all moral theories must explain .... 8
4. Morality as observance and as character. Motive and Intention . 10
5. Some moral Systems have been based on Rules ; but all rational
Morality implies an End such as men can understand, desire and strive after ....... 13
6. Every relation of Means to End implies a corresponding law of Cause
and Effect. Scientific Morality deals with the tendencies of actions to promote the Chief Good . . . .16
7. Advantages of considering Moral Science as a study of tendencies . 19
CHAPTER II. — CONCEPTIONS OF THE CHIEF GOOD
1. All philosophical Ends imply spontaneous desires ; and desire is
always for some kind of experience . . . .21
2. The philosophic Ends are not in conflict. Happiness, Perfection,
"Wisdom, Beauty of Character, Virtue, Tranquillity — are all naturally desired .......
