This volume investigates the conceptual and normative dimensions of ill-being, challenging the traditional philosophical focus on well-being by exploring the nature and value of negative states. The authors, Christine Tappolet and Mauro Rossi, leverage contemporary analytical philosophy to construct a framework that treats ill-being as a distinct, multifaceted phenomenon rather than a mere absence of positive states. By synthesizing contributions from various experts, the text argues that understanding the structure of suffering, pain, and frustration is essential for a complete theory of value.

Scholars in the field of value theory recognize this work as a significant contribution to the under-examined side of axiology. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which is intended for an audience familiar with contemporary philosophical discourse.