This book investigates the fundamental question of how individuals can improve their ethical beliefs and what role philosophy plays in defining a good life. James Griffin, a prominent moral philosopher, evaluates existing ethical frameworks to determine their viability in practical human life. He argues that traditional schools of thought, such as deontology and virtue ethics, often fail because they demand more from human agents than is realistically possible. The text presents a refined ethical theory that balances philosophical rigor with the practical limitations of human nature.

Experts recognize this work as a significant contribution to contemporary moral philosophy, particularly for its critique of overly ambitious ethical systems. Readers frequently note the clarity of Griffin's prose, which makes complex normative arguments accessible to both academic specialists and informed generalists.