61 pages • 2 hours read
Russ Shafer LandauThe Fundamentals of Ethics
Nonfiction | Reference/Text Book | Adult | Published in 2009A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
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
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 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.