Synopsis

The ethics of Aristotle (384-322 B.C.), and virtue ethics in general, have seen a resurgence of interest over the past few decades. No longer do utilitarianism and Kantian ethics on their own dominate the moral landscape. In addition, Aristotelian themes fill out that landscape, with such issues as the importance of friendship and emotions in a good life, the role of moral perception in wise choice, the nature of happiness and its constitution, moral education and habituation, finding a stable home in contemporary moral debate. The essays in this volume represent the best of that debate. Taken together, they provide a close analysis of central arguments in Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics. But they do more than that. Each shows the enduring interest of the questions Aristotle himself subtly and complexly raises in the context of his own contemporary discussions.

Booknews

Thirteen essays, devoted primarily to the , discuss a range of issues elicited by readings of the central arguments of the . Topics treated include an account of or "weakness of will," a feminist view of Aristotle's "rational ideal," and a questioning of whether the happy life is constituted by a broad range of civic and practical activities or simply by philosophizing. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Biography

Nancy Sherman is professor of philosophy at Georgetown University and the inaugural holder of the Distinguished Chair in Ethics at the U.S. Naval Academy.