Aristotle's Ethics and Moral Responsibility
Aristotle's Ethics and Moral Responsibility
Aristotle's Ethics develops a complex theory of the qualities which make for a good human being and for several decades there has been intense discussion about whether Aristotle's theory of voluntariness, outlined in the Ethics, actually delineates what modern thinkers would recognize as a theory of moral responsibility. Javier Echeñique presents a novel account of Aristotle's discussion of voluntariness in the Ethics, arguing - against the interpretation by Arthur Adkins and that inspired by Peter Strawson - that he developed an original and compelling theory of moral responsibility and that this theory has contributed in important ways to our understanding of coercion, ignorance and violence. His study will be valuable for a wide range of readers interested in Aristotle and in ancient ethics more broadly.
- Will appeal to those who are uncomfortable with 'Kantian' (accountability) and 'consequentialist' interpretations of Aristotle's theory
- Provides insight into the contribution of ancient ethics to contemporary ethics debates
- A useful reference for those who are interested in criminal liability, theory of action and moral responsibility
Reviews & endorsements
'This historically and philosophically meticulous study of Aristotle on the voluntary argues that his view is 'voluntariness as attributability, not as accountability'. The book is a considerable achievement, and a real and serious addition to the literature in the area.' Timothy Chappell, Open University
'… Echeñique's book is exceedingly thoughtful, precise in expression throughout, consistently rich in insights, and enjoyable to study …' Michael Pakaluk, Bryn Mawr Classical Review
'Javier Echeñique presents a meticulous examination of Aristotle's doctrine of moral responsibility.' Philosophy in Review
Product details
May 2012Hardback
9781107021587
218 pages
235 × 160 × 16 mm
0.49kg
Available
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- 1. Against the Strawsonian interpretation: the negative argument
- 2. Aristotle on ethical ascription: the positive argument
- 3. The definitions of violence
- 4. Coercion as justification and excuse 1: the Ethica Eudemia
- 5. Coercion as justification and excuse 2: the Ethica Nicomachea
- 6. Factual error and the source of blame
- 7. The pain condition.
