Science and the End of Ethics

Science and the End of Ethics examines some of the most important positive and negative implications that science has for ethics. On the basis of strong scientific reasons for abandoning traditional notions of right and wrong, it endorses a new ethical approach that focuses on achieving some of the key practical goals shared by ethicists.

"Moral skepticism is an ancient idea, but the debate over its merits has been recently enlivened by a suspicion that scientific findings about the evolutionary sources of human moral thinking might somehow favor the skeptic's case. Stephen Morris stakes out a radical skeptical position boldly and clearly: science gives us strong reasons to doubt the existence of moral facts. But Morris's aims are ultimately constructive; in a sensitive and novel discussion, he provides suggestions as to how science could nonetheless help us to live more cooperative and harmonious lives." - Richard Joyce, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand

'This book offers a wide-ranging, accessible, interdisciplinary inquiry into the nature of morality. Without sacrificing rigor, Morris keeps his account grounded in the real world an accomplishment that's all too rare in contemporary ethics.' - Tamler Sommers, University of Houston, USA

'This book blends high theory with down-to-earth, empirically backed discussion of the practicalities of getting people to treat each other better for example, by promoting happiness so that people are more inclined to prosocial behavior. Stephen Morris has given us a provocative and engaging book that significantly advances the debate, and will interest a wide range of readers.' - Dan Haybron, Saint Louis University, USA

Stephen G. Morris is Assistant Professor, in the Department of Political Science, Economics & Philosophy, College of Staten Island (CUNY), USA.