Author Description
The Roots of Normativity concerns one of the most basic philosophical questions: how to explain normativity in its many guises. Over many decades, Joseph Raz has sought to develop an answer to this question, according to which understanding normativity is understanding the roles and structures of normative reasons which, when they are reasons for action, are based on values. This volume collects twelve chapters which succinctly lay out his view, and determine its contours through some of its applications. The chapters also aim to clarify the ways in which normative reasons are made for rational beings like us. Raz's value-based account of normativity is brought to bear on many aspects of the lives of rational beings and their agency, and in particular, their ability to form and maintain relationships, and to live their lives as social beings with a sense of their identity.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This volume investigates the fundamental nature of normativity and how it functions within the lives of rational agents. Joseph Raz, a prominent philosopher of law and ethics, draws upon decades of research to argue that normativity is best understood through the structure of normative reasons. He posits that reasons for action are inherently grounded in values, which shape the agency and identity of rational beings.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- A collection of twelve interconnected chapters detailing a value-based account of normativity.
- Analysis of the relationship between normative reasons and rational agency.
- Exploration of how normative structures influence social identity and interpersonal relationships.
Scope Limits
- The text does not provide a comprehensive history of normative ethics.
- It does not focus on applied political policy or legal theory, but rather on the foundational philosophical mechanics of normativity.
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Scholars and students of moral philosophy frequently identify this work as a definitive synthesis of Raz's mature thought on practical reason. Readers often note the high level of academic density and the rigorous analytical style characteristic of the author's contributions to the field.
Page Count:
314
Publication Date:
2022-01-01
ISBN-10:
0192662511
ISBN-13:
9780192662514
Philosophy
Ethics
Normativity
Value Theory
Agency
Rationality