The Origin Of The Knowledge Of Right And Wrong

By Franz Brentano

Book Overview

The Origin of the Knowledge of Right and Wrong is a philosophical treatise written by Franz Brentano. The book explores the fundamental question of how humans come to understand the concepts of right and wrong. Brentano argues that the knowledge of morality is not derived from empirical observation, but rather is a product of our rational faculties. He posits that moral principles are not subjective or culturally relative, but rather objective and universal. Brentano's work is considered an important contribution to the field of moral philosophy and has influenced the works of many subsequent philosophers. The book is written in a clear and accessible style, making it suitable for both scholars and general readers interested in the topic of ethics.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1163082465
• ISBN13: 9781163082461
• Release Date: September 2010
• Publisher: Kessinger Publishing
• Length: 144 Pages
• Weight: 0.44 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

refreshing common-sense, lacking methodology

Brentano is principally known for the concept of Intentionality that he pioneered, and that is now a prominent issue within the philosophy of the mind (considered a sub-division with an affinity both to metaphysics and philosophy of language). In this book, however, he attempts to give an account of morals. He analyzes mental activities in depth and searches for a source of certainty in moral judgements, as did many before him (the books dates from 1889). He criticizes Kant, adopts and tries to improve on Descartes, and relies on Aristotle. To sum up, the good is what we rightly love, the bad - what we rightly hate. How do we know what is 'rightly' here ? by distinguishing between instinctive, blind mental impulse and wise, higher vision. And how we do that ? well, by virtue of intuitive evidence of the natural light... yes, the same principal Descartes used. Why read it then ? because Brentano makes some fine observations about the activities of the mind; because dealing with his arguments may spur your own understanding; and because he is an important figure in philosophy, historically. Of course, philosophy never completely solved a cardinal problem, and Brentano is no exception. The important thing is what you go through when facing the problems of morality, among others. Don't skip the appendices.