Overview

This book investigates the relationship between morality and rationality in the context of historical and present-day contractarian ethics. From Rawls to Gauthier, contractarians have attempted to construct their methodological foundations on the theory of rational choice. Through a careful study of the nature and limits of the theory of rational choice, Jung Soon Park argues that the theory cannot provide the reliable foundations for contractarian liberal ethics. Consequently, the author takes seriously the question about the future of contractarian liberal ethics: Is it the end or can there be a transformation?

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9780820415666

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Reviews

Park provides his reader with an overview of current developments in contract theory. Although his main focus of attention is on Rawls and Gauthier, Park covers the waterfront by referring to and commenting on the extensive literature that has developed since Rawls's 'A Theory of Justice' was first published. His effort is at the same time readable and scholarly. (Nicholas Fotion, Emory University)Dr. Park has written a careful, thorough and thoughtful study of one of the most important issues of contemporary moral philosophy, viz., the nature of contract theories and their role in moral systems. He is in command of a wide range of material and has skillfully employed his scholarship to illuminate his topic. Reading Dr. Park's study greatly enhanced my understanding of present day contract theories, and I confidently predict that other readers will have the same experience. (Gerard Elfstrom, Auburn University).

Author Information

The Author: Jung Soon Park studied philosophy at Yonsei University in Seoul, where he obtained an M.A., and at Emory University in Atlanta, where he obtained a Ph.D. His specialty is moral and political philosophy. He is a part-time lecturer in the Department of Philosophy at Yonsei University. Contractarian Liberal Ethics and the Theory of Rational Choice is his first book.

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