Ethical Constructivism

Discusses constructivist responses to fundamental issues such as why be moral, why be rational, and why be an agent.

Carla Bagnoli (Author)

9781108706605, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 3 February 2022

75 pages
22.9 x 15.1 x 0.6 cm, 0.15 kg

Ethical constructivism holds that truths about the relation between rationality, morality, and agency are best understood as constructed by correct reasoning, rather than discovered or invented. Unlike other metaphors used in metaethics, construction brings to light the generative and dynamic dimension of practical reason. On the resultant picture, practical reasoning is not only productive but also self-transforming, and socially empowering. The main task of this volume is to illustrate how constructivism has substantially modified and expanded the agenda of metaethics by refocusing on rational agency and its constitutive principles. In particular, this volume identifies, compares and discusses the prospects and failures of the main strands of constructivism regarding the powers of reason in responding to the challenges of contingency. While Kantian, Humean, Aristotelian, and Hegelian theories sharply differ in their constructivist strategies, they provide compelling accounts of the rational articulation required for an inclusive and unified ethical community.

Introduction
1. Objectivity as a Practical Task
2. The Inescapability of Moral Reasons
3. The Contingency of Moral Agreement
4. Practices of Rational Deliberation
5. A Balancing Act.

Subject Areas: Ethics & moral philosophy [HPQ], Philosophy [HP]