Moral Philosophy: A Reader

Indiana-based Hackett Publishing is a leading press for the humanitites disciplines.They specialize in producing inexpensive paperback editions of classic philosophical and literary works,as well as quality materials to support humanities teaching.Pojman's(pronounced "poy-man") ethics text/anthology does not disappiont us fans of Hackett.The book is .. a 333-page text paperback. It is divided into eight parts,such as relativism,egoism,values,utilitarianism,deontology,virtues,and religious morality.The text can be taught in Pojman's order,or the instructor can "jump around" at will as each part is autonomous.There is a nice balance of thinkers from across the tradition.Ancient and modern thinkers included arePlato,Aristotle,Aquinas,Mill,Hobbes,Kant,and others.Contemporary writers include Ayn Rand,James Rachels,Derek Parfit,JohnathanBennett,W.D. Ross,and Alasdair McIntyre.Each selection is roughly article-length,ideal for teaching over one class or one week of classes.Two minor criticisms:for ethics classes,a section on the free-will problem and an introduction to non-occidental moral theories would be useful.These are clearly sins of omission-for what it is,this text is unsurpassable for quality and value.A note of thanks is due to Professor Pojman and,once again,to the folks at Hackett.