Moralism: A Study of a Vice

by Craig Taylor

Overview

Moralism involves the distortion of moral thought, the distortion of reflection and judgement. It is a vice, and one to which many - from the philosopher to the media pundit to the politician - are highly susceptible. This book examines the nature of moralism in specific moral judgements and the ways in which moral philosophy and theories about morality can themselves become skewed by this vice. This book ranges across a wide range of topics: the problem of the demandingness of morality; the conflict between moral and other values; the contrast between the practice of moral philosophy and other modes of moral thought or reflection; moralism in the media; and, moralism in the public discussion of literature and art. This highly original and provocative book will be of interest to students of philosophy, psychology, theology and media, and to anyone who takes a serious interest in contemporary morality.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781844654949
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	12/21/2011
Pages:	200
Product dimensions:	5.44(w) x 8.50(h) x (d)

About the Author

Craig Taylor is senior lecturer in philosophy at Flinders University, Australia.

Table of Contents

Introduction 1. Moralism and Related Vices 2. The Scarlet Letter: "[A] tale of human frailty and sorrow" 3. Trusting Oneself 4. Overweening Morality 5. Moral Judgement and Moral Reflection 6. Moral Difference 7. Public Moralism Conclusion Notes Bibliography Index

Editorial Reviews

"A very important book on a very important subject. Taylor's charming and delicate prose guides the reader carefully and often delightfully through the difficult waters facing diplomats, journalists, artists, reality-show participants, philosophers, Lord Jim, Dostoevsky's 'Idiot', and in fact all of us. There has never been a better critique of 'moralism' than this book." Rupert Read, University of East Anglia


"This elegant book - filled with examples from literature, the visual arts and politics - is in a subtle way intensely ambitious. Taylor sets out not only to identify a significant vice but to transform our understanding of the challenges of moral thought


"This is a well-argued, timely book that shows the relevance of philosophy for contemporary life. Summing Up: Recommended." CHOICE

From the Publisher