Value and Justification
The Foundations of Liberal Theory

Gerald F. Gaus (Author)

9780521397339, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 27 July 1990

560 pages
21.6 x 13.8 x 3.5 cm, 0.773 kg

'Gaus' work constitutes a highly original attempt to provide liberal theory with psychological and moral foundations.' Philip Pettit, The Australian National University

This important new book takes as its points of departure two questions: What is the nature of valuing? and What morality can be justified in a society that deeply disagrees on what is truly valuable? In Part One, the author develops a theory of value that attempts to reconcile reason with passions. Part Two explores how this theory of value grounds our commitment to moral action. The author argues that rational moral action can neither be seen as a way of simply maximising one's own values, nor derived from reason independent of one's values. Rather, our commitment to the moral point of view is presupposed by our value systems. The book concludes with a defense of liberal political morality.

Preface
1. The nature of the theories
Part I. A Theory of Value: 2. Emotion
3. Valuing
4. Value judgements
5. Values and value systems
Part II. A Theory of Justification: 6. Value and moral reasons
7. Telelogical and deontological justification 8. The state of nature
9. The social contract
Appendices
Bibliography.

Subject Areas: Social & political philosophy [HPS]