Synopses & Reviews
Gregory Kavka (1947-1994) was a prominent and influential figure in contemporary moral and political philosophy. The new essays in this volume are concerned with fundamental issues of rational commitment and social justice to which Kavka devoted his work as a philosopher. The topics include the relationship between intention and moral action as part of which Kavka's famous "toxin puzzle" is a focus of discussion, the nature of deterrence, the rationality of morals, contractarian ethics, and the contemporary relevance of Hobbes' political thought. This volume will interest not only philosophers but also political scientists and economists.
Review
"This is a wide-ranging and challenging collection that honors Gregory Kavka's memory, and rewards the time given to its reading." Brian Bix, Philosophy in Review
Synopsis
Essays concerned with fundamental issues of rational commitment and social justice to which Kavka devoted his work as a philosopher.
Table of Contents
Preface; 1. Gregory Kavka's moral and political philosophy Christopher W. Morris; 2. Some personal memories Tyler Burge; The shadow of the future Brian Skyrms; 3. A New Paradox of Deterrence Daniel M. Farrell; 4. Rethinking the toxin puzzle David Gauthier; 5.Toxin, temptation, and the stability of intention Michael E. Bratman; 6. The toxin puzzle Gilbert Harman; 7. Religion and morality in Hobbes Edwin Curley; 8. Contemporary uses of Hobbes' political philosophy Sharon A. Lloyd; 9. The Knavish Humean Jean Hampton; Some considerations in favor of contractualism Gary Watson; 10. Justice, reasons, and moral standing Christopher W. Morris; 11. Wrongful life: paradoxes in the morality of causing people to exist Jeff McMahan; Bibliography.