The Concept of Moral Obligation

Paperback / softback

Main Details

Title The Concept of Moral Obligation
Authors and Contributors      By (author) Michael J. Zimmerman
SeriesCambridge Studies in Philosophy
Physical Properties
Format:Paperback / softback
Pages:320
Dimensions(mm): Height 215,Width 140
Category/GenreEthics and moral philosophy
ISBN/Barcode 9780521038744
ClassificationsDewey:170
Audience
Professional & Vocational
Illustrations 27 Line drawings, unspecified

Publishing Details

Publisher Cambridge University Press
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publication Date 16 August 2007
Publication Country United Kingdom

Description

The principal aim of this book is to develop and defend an analysis of the concept of moral obligation. The analysis is neutral regarding competing substantive theories of obligation, whether consequentialist or deontological in character. What it seeks to do is generate solutions to a range of philosophical problems concerning obligation and its application. Amongst these problems are deontic paradoxes, the supersession of obligation, conditional obligation, prima facie obligation, actualism and possibilism, dilemmas, supererogation, and cooperation. By virtue of its normative neutrality, the analysis provides a theoretical framework within which competing theories of obligation can be developed and assessed. This study is a major contribution to metaethics that will be of particular interest to all philosophers concerned with normative ethical theory.

Reviews

"...an impressive, careful and helpful book...Zimmerman offers delightful and stimulating brief forays into the territory that he passes by." David Sobel, Ethics