Ethics: A Pluralistic Approach to Moral Theory

By Lawrence M. Hinman

Book Overview

ETHICS: A PLURALISTIC APPROACH TO MORAL THEORY, FIFTH EDITION provides a comprehensive yet clear introduction to the main traditions in ethical thought, including virtue ethics, utilitarianism, and deontology. Additionally, the book presents a conceptual framework of ethical pluralism to help readers understand the relationship among various theories. Lawrence Hinman, one of the most respected and accomplished professionals in ethics and philosophy education today, presents a text that gives readers plentiful opportunities to explore ethical theory and their own responses to them, using fascinating features such as the "Ethical Inventory" sections that appear at the beginning and the end of the text. End-of-chapter discussion questions, and the use of current issues and movies help students retain what they've learn and truly comprehend the subject matter.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1133050018
• ISBN13: 9781133050018
• Release Date: January 2012
• Publisher: Cengage Learning
• Length: 400 Pages
• Weight: 1.15 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.3" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Great introductory book for the uninitiated student!

This book covers the major approaches to ethical decision making. It is in-depth, but not overly technical in nature. This is perhaps its greatest value, as it allows the novice student to become familiar with the major lines of discussion within the discipline without burdening them with some of the more intricate discussions that are more difficult. EXCELLENT study questions at the end of each chapter are another plus. Though I ultimately disagree with the authors conclusions as to how best to approach the study of ethics; I do, nevertheless appreciate the irenic spirit in which the material is covered. I am a Professor of Philosophy and Systematic Theology at a conservative bible college. Given the differences in worldview perspective,I still found myself in agreement with his assesments of most of the approaches covered. I do, of course, disagree with many of the conclusions Hinman draws in respect to his chapter on Religious Ethics (divine command theory) Still, I would suggest this book to fellow educators as a balanced and irenic introductory text regardless of ones religious committment.