Moral Theory: An Introduction

by Mark Timmons

Book Overview

Moral Theory explores some of the most historically important and currently debated moral theories about the nature of the right and good. After introducing students in the first chapter to some of the main aims and methods of evaluating a moral theory, the remaining chapters are devoted to an examination of various moral theories including the divine command theory, moral relativism, natural law theory, Kant's moral theory, moral pluralism, virtue ethics, and moral particularism.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 084769769X
• ISBN13: 9780847697694
• Release Date: December 2001
• Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
• Length: 291 Pages
• Weight: 1.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.0" x 8.8"

Customer Reviews

Excellent

"Moral Theory: An Introduction" by Mark Timmons is an introduction to normative ethics. After explaining what makes for a good moral theory, Timmons covers the divine command theory, moral relativism, the natural law theory, utilitarianism, Kant's moral theory, moral pluralism, virtue ethics and moral particularism. Each theory is presented clearly and evaluated carefully. Various objections to each theory as well as replies are considered. For each theory helpful references for further reading are provided, and the book also includes a useful glossary. The book is organized excellently and illustrated nicely with examples. This is the best introduction to normative ethics that I am familiar with. I strongly recommend this for undergraduate philosophy courses in ethics, especially upper-level undergraduate courses, though the book is advertised as accessible to those without previous exposure to philosophy. Readers may also be interested in the easier introduction, "Elements of Moral Philosophy" by Rachels.

A very good introductory survey

This is a solid introduction to the different major ethical theories. While no means a page-turner, it is clearly written, well-organized, and rigorous without being overly technical. Highly recommended for those looking for an introductory text.

A Good Choice for an Ethics class.

Moral Theory which is an excellent text for students of ethics was written by Mark Timmons, a philosophy professor at the University of Memphis. Nine moral theories are clearly presented (Chs. 2-10) as well as a chapter showing the value of using a moral theory when making a decision (Ch. 1) and a conclusion showing the author's preference for Ross' moral theory (Ch. 11). The examples used to illustrate each moral theory are accurate and helpful, the bibliography at the end of each chapter is valuable, and Timmons' discussions of the confusing parts in each moral theory are greatly appreciated. If a student of philosophy wishes to understand and appreciate the various moral theories and "decision procedures" (p. 3), then he or she would greatly benefit from Timmons' Moral Theory.

simply the best mid-level introduction to ethics text

This is really an excellent book in every way that an ethics text can be good. It would be perfect for any mid-level course in ethical theory or the history of ethics. Students and ideally, general readers, who just want to learn what some of the best thinkers have thought about right & wrong and good & bad will learn a lot from this book. They will also also (and more importantly), learn careful philosophical methodology--that is, learn how to think about and critically evaluate ethical theories. The book is clear and concise, careful and precise but not overly technical to a fault, and enjoyable to read. Also, the price simply cannot be beat, especially for a text. Poor students will be grateful and they might even hold onto it after class is over.