The Biology and Psychology of Moral Agency

Description

This important book brings findings and theories in biology and psychology to bear on the fundamental question in ethics of what it means to behave morally. It explains how we acquire and put to work our capacities to act morally and how these capacities are reliable means to achieving true moral beliefs, proper moral motivations, and successful moral actions. By presenting a complete model of moral agency based on contemporary evolutionary theory, developmental biology and psychology, and social cognitive theory, the book offers a unique perspective. It will be read with profit by a broad swathe of philosophers, as well as psychologists and biologists.

From the hardback review: 'It is well written, groundbreaking in its integration of three fields of enquiry (biology, psychology, and philosophy) and superbly organized. This book will be an important contribution to the important and exciting research into the nature and grounding of morality.' Paul Thompson, Professor of Biology and Philosophy, University of Toronto From the hardback review: 'To call this an ambitious book is wildly to understate its aspirations ... This is a rich and wide-ranging book.' Human Nature Review