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djpcrowley 's review for:
Parfit
by David Edmonds
David Edmonds, a seasoned philosopher and author, has delivered yet another compelling work in his latest book, "Parfit: A Philosopher and His Mission to Save Morality". The book serves as an intellectual biography, detailing the life and philosophical endeavours of one of the most influential moral philosophers of the 20th and early 21st centuries, Derek Parfit.
Edmonds has a natural ability to unravel complex philosophical ideas and theories with great clarity and simplicity, making this book highly accessible, not only to students and practitioners of philosophy but also to the general public who might have an interest in moral philosophy. His meticulous research, coupled with his lucid writing style, offers a comprehensive understanding of Parfit's groundbreaking work in ethics and personal identity.
The book is organized chronologically, tracing Parfit's early influences and education, his transformative years at Oxford, his work on personal identity and moral philosophy, culminating with his most influential work, "Reasons and Persons". Edmonds' portrayal of Parfit does not stop at his professional life but also includes intimate details of his personal life, painting a holistic picture of the man behind the philosopher.
Edmonds' insightful analysis of Parfit's theories and ideas reveals the magnitude and depth of Parfit's contribution to philosophy. Particularly impressive is the discussion on Parfit's work on personal identity and self-interest, which revolutionised the way we think about our existence and moral responsibility. Further, the exploration of Parfit's 'non-identity problem', a thought experiment that challenges traditional views on harm and benefit, is presented with admirable clarity and precision.
"Parfit: A Philosopher and His Mission to Save Morality" also delves into the less known yet equally fascinating aspects of Parfit's philosophical journey, his exploration of metaethics, and his ambitious project to establish a grand unified theory of morality. Edmonds' expert commentary on Parfit's views on 'objective list theory' and 'triple theory' will be of particular interest to those immersed in moral philosophy.
A notable highlight of the book is Edmonds' masterful recreation of the philosophical atmosphere and intellectual debates of the era that Parfit was a part of. The reader is transported to the lecture halls of Oxford, to the spirited philosophical discussions, and the intellectual rivalries, offering a glimpse into the world that shaped Parfit and his philosophy.
However, it's worth noting that while the book is rich in its content and rigorous in its analysis, it doesn't shy away from the criticisms and controversies that Parfit's theories stirred within the philosophical community. Edmonds' treatment of these aspects is fair, balanced, and thought-provoking.
In conclusion, "Parfit: A Philosopher and His Mission to Save Morality" is a brilliant exploration of Derek Parfit's life and philosophy. It offers an insightful and engaging journey into the world of one of the most significant moral philosophers of our time. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in moral philosophy, or simply looking to explore the ideas that have shaped contemporary thoughts on ethics, personal identity, and moral responsibility. David Edmonds has done a fantastic job of making Derek Parfit's philosophy accessible and engaging to all.
Edmonds has a natural ability to unravel complex philosophical ideas and theories with great clarity and simplicity, making this book highly accessible, not only to students and practitioners of philosophy but also to the general public who might have an interest in moral philosophy. His meticulous research, coupled with his lucid writing style, offers a comprehensive understanding of Parfit's groundbreaking work in ethics and personal identity.
The book is organized chronologically, tracing Parfit's early influences and education, his transformative years at Oxford, his work on personal identity and moral philosophy, culminating with his most influential work, "Reasons and Persons". Edmonds' portrayal of Parfit does not stop at his professional life but also includes intimate details of his personal life, painting a holistic picture of the man behind the philosopher.
Edmonds' insightful analysis of Parfit's theories and ideas reveals the magnitude and depth of Parfit's contribution to philosophy. Particularly impressive is the discussion on Parfit's work on personal identity and self-interest, which revolutionised the way we think about our existence and moral responsibility. Further, the exploration of Parfit's 'non-identity problem', a thought experiment that challenges traditional views on harm and benefit, is presented with admirable clarity and precision.
"Parfit: A Philosopher and His Mission to Save Morality" also delves into the less known yet equally fascinating aspects of Parfit's philosophical journey, his exploration of metaethics, and his ambitious project to establish a grand unified theory of morality. Edmonds' expert commentary on Parfit's views on 'objective list theory' and 'triple theory' will be of particular interest to those immersed in moral philosophy.
A notable highlight of the book is Edmonds' masterful recreation of the philosophical atmosphere and intellectual debates of the era that Parfit was a part of. The reader is transported to the lecture halls of Oxford, to the spirited philosophical discussions, and the intellectual rivalries, offering a glimpse into the world that shaped Parfit and his philosophy.
However, it's worth noting that while the book is rich in its content and rigorous in its analysis, it doesn't shy away from the criticisms and controversies that Parfit's theories stirred within the philosophical community. Edmonds' treatment of these aspects is fair, balanced, and thought-provoking.
In conclusion, "Parfit: A Philosopher and His Mission to Save Morality" is a brilliant exploration of Derek Parfit's life and philosophy. It offers an insightful and engaging journey into the world of one of the most significant moral philosophers of our time. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in moral philosophy, or simply looking to explore the ideas that have shaped contemporary thoughts on ethics, personal identity, and moral responsibility. David Edmonds has done a fantastic job of making Derek Parfit's philosophy accessible and engaging to all.