This book investigates whether the foundations of human morality can be established as a rigorous science through the application of game theory. Ken Binmore, an economist and game theorist, utilizes evolutionary biology and mathematical modeling to argue that morality is a biological adaptation rather than a purely abstract construct. By examining the social contracts of prehuman ancestors, the author posits that current fairness norms are evolutionary remnants that have been shaped by cultural development. The text seeks to reconcile John Rawls' egalitarian theory of justice with John Harsanyi's utilitarian framework by identifying the specific environmental contexts where each theory applies.

Experts in game theory and political philosophy frequently cite this work as a significant attempt to bridge the gap between biological evolution and normative ethics. Readers often note the high level of technical rigor required to follow the author's mathematical arguments regarding social contract theory.