Reasons and Persons
Reasons and Persons
Derek Parfit
Will MacAskill
One of the most important books written in the 20th century. - Will MacAskill
Sam Harris
Brilliant and written as though by an alien intelligence. - Sam Harris
Patrick Collison
I don't totally agree, but I think it's a really interesting modern take on moral philosophy. - Patrick Collison
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Reasons and Persons

Reasons and Persons

Derek Parfit
By
Derek Parfit
4.3
138
ratings on Goodreads

In "Reasons and Persons," Derek Parfit embarks on a philosophical journey that upends conventional wisdom about self-interest, morality, and the essence of our identity. With rigorous argumentation and insightful analysis, Parfit challenges the deeply held beliefs that underpin our understanding of rational behavior and ethical decision-making. He posits that our intuitive notions of acting in our own best interests are often flawed, suggesting that true rationality may compel us to make choices that seemingly contradict our well-being. Through this lens, Parfit explores the complex interplay between personal identity and moral responsibility, questioning the very foundations of our sense of self and our obligations to others. Parfit's exploration extends into the realm of moral philosophy, where he confronts the paradoxes and contradictions inherent in our conventional moral views. He argues compellingly that many of our ethical stances are self-defeating, leading us into actions that, while seemingly justifiable, fail under closer scrutiny. The implications of his analysis are profound, especially when considering the rights and welfare of future generations. Here, Parfit forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about our responsibilities to those yet unborn, challenging us to rethink our approach to ethical dilemmas. "Reasons and Persons" is not just a critique but a call to reevaluate our most fundamental assumptions about who we are and how we ought to live, making it a seminal work in contemporary philosophy.

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Released
1984
1 Jan
Length
543
Pages

3

recommendations

recommendation

One of the most important books written in the 20th century. - Will MacAskill
Brilliant and written as though by an alien intelligence. - Sam Harris
I don't totally agree, but I think it's a really interesting modern take on moral philosophy. - Patrick Collison
My life seemed like a glass tunnel, through which I was moving faster every year, and at the end of which there was darkness. When I changed my view, the walls of my glass tunnel disappeared. I now live in the open air.
— Derek Parfit, Reasons and Persons

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