This vast, comprehensive effort proposes a new and complete theory of ethics. Believing that the only way to find out what ethics should be is by a thorough analysis of what the field of ethics is, Feibleman provides a theoretical background against which he incorporates the many ethical theories, synthesizing contrary theories by pointing out their similarities and their strengths. The ethics presented in this book is viewed from a naturalistic standpoint, and is based on the scientific background of integrative (...) energy levels which compose the cosmos. "Good," "bad," "responsibility," "obligation," "morality," all are defined within each of the four moral integrative levels which are : the individual, the social, the human, and the cosmic. Feibleman presents the morals for each level and includes sections exploring ideal and concrete moralities. By far the most important part is the concluding section on moral strategy. The latter enables man to pass from concrete morality to ideal morality, it is in effect the bridge from "is" to "ought."—E. C. (shrink)

This critical work proceeds in a scholarly manner to show that Hume's Treatise, which has been ignored as a source for his moral theory, is of definite value for a correct and complete interpretation of his ethics. It is the author's contention that Hume's moral theory is closely connected to his psychology, which is set out in the Treatise. The author presents various interpretations he considers incorrect, exposing their faults and then suggesting an alternative view. Árdal is not attempting a (...) reconstruction of Hume's ethics nor a complete explanation of the theory of passions. Rather it is his aim to show that the value expressions of approval-disapproval are passions, and a knowledge of the origins and causes of the indirect passions provides the key to their understanding. Also included in this discussion are accounts of the natural and artificial virtues and the role of evaluative language in Hume's philosophy.—E. C. (shrink)