Reason and Value

A distinctive contribution to the subject of the relations between reason, motivation and value

E. J. Bond (Author)

9780521270793, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 17 February 1983

180 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.1 cm, 0.44 kg

The relations between reason, motivation and value present problems which, though ancient, remain intractable. If values are objective and rational how can they move us and if they are dependent on our contingent desires how can they be rational? E. J. Bond makes a bold attack on this dilemma. The widespread view among philosophers today is that judgements contain an irreducible element of personal commitment. To this Professor Bond proposes an account of values as objective and value judgements as true or false, employing a distinction between grounding and motivating reasons to establish their connection with action. He defines and tests his position against a number of recent theories, providing in the process forceful criticism of Williams, Wiggins, Foot, Narveson and Nagel, among others. A distinctive contribution to the subject, it will stimulate interest and worthwhile debate among philosophers, while also serving as an introduction to this vital topic.

Introduction - the problem
1. Desire and motivation
2. Motivating reasons and grounding reasons
3. Desire and the good
4. Objective value (part one)
5. Objective value (part two)
6. Hedonism
7. Good and evil
8. Meaning, value and practical judgements
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Analytical philosophy & Logical Positivism [HPCF5]