The Pursuit of Rational Good

Henry Sidgwick and the Ethics of Reason

De: The Practical Atlas

Narrado por: Virtual Voice

The Pursuit of Rational Good: Henry Sidgwick and the Ethics of Reason explores the life, thought, and enduring influence of one of the most quietly transformative moral philosophers of the nineteenth century. Written with clarity and depth, this volume examines how Henry Sidgwick sought to reconcile reason, morality, and human happiness in an age of scientific progress and moral uncertainty.

Through ten richly developed chapters, readers discover how Sidgwick transformed utilitarianism into a disciplined science of ethics, redefined moral reasoning as a rational enterprise, and confronted the profound tension between self-interest and altruism with intellectual honesty. From his groundbreaking Methods of Ethics to his lifelong work in education reform and social equality, Sidgwick’s story is that of a philosopher who combined precision of thought with compassion of spirit.

This book offers an engaging, accessible introduction to Sidgwick’s philosophy and his influence on later thinkers such as G. E. Moore, John Rawls, and Bertrand Russell. It also situates his ideas within the cultural and moral challenges of Victorian Cambridge, showing how his search for truth shaped both the study of ethics and the moral conscience of modern thought.

Perfect for readers interested in philosophy, intellectual history, ethics, or the foundations of moral reasoning, The Pursuit of Rational Good invites reflection on what it means to live thoughtfully and to act with moral clarity in a complex world.

From The Practical Atlas series, known for its elegant writing, rich context, and intellectual depth, this work continues the tradition of making the great ideas of philosophy accessible, meaningful, and alive for today’s readers.

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