61 pages 2 hours read

Russ Shafer Landau

The Fundamentals of Ethics

Nonfiction | Reference/Text Book | Adult | Published in 2009

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Fundamentals of Ethics, by Russ Shafer-Landau, is an introductory guide for new students in moral philosophy, divided into three sections covering value theory, normative ethics, and metaethics. The book explores various ethical theories, including hedonism, desire satisfaction theory, natural law theory, psychological and ethical egoism, consequentialism, Kantian ethics, social contract theory, ethical pluralism, virtue ethics, and feminist ethics. It also examines metaethical topics like moral skepticism, relativism, and nihilism, providing students with a comprehensive overview of Western moral philosophy.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Fundamentals of Ethics by Russ Shafer-Landau is praised for its clear writing and comprehensive coverage of key ethical theories, making it accessible for students. However, some reviews mention a lack of depth in exploring complex topics and limited practical examples. Overall, it is a valuable introductory text for those new to ethical studies.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Fundamentals of Ethics?

A reader who would enjoy The Fundamentals of Ethics by Russ Shafer-Landau is likely a student or enthusiast of philosophy, particularly ethics. Comparable to audience of James Rachels's The Elements of Moral Philosophy, these readers appreciate clear, accessible introductions to ethical concepts and theories.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Philosophy

Themes

Values/Ideas: Good & Evil

Society: Community

Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice