Overview

Many would agree that we live in a world of decaying morality, in an age with much disagreement about fundamental moral issues. Debates surge over matters such as abortion, euthanasia, sexual issues, the proper role of government, and so on. The disputes are never ending. Agreement is difficult because there is no common ground on the very nature and existence of morality. Why are there OUGHTS? Who says what is right or wrong? Is there an ultimate measure for ethics? How can we know? Are there in fact moral laws that are binding on us, or are they merely constructed on the values and desires of humans? And if there are moral laws external to us, why is this true? Examining the fundamental roots of morality, this book argues that moral laws do, in fact, exist, and necessarily so. Parrish takes the readers on an extensive journey through the realm of ethical theories, and finally delivers them to the very foundation--the source--of moral laws, the why of the oughts.

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9798385261116

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Reviews

""Categorical imperatives seem to have an inescapable authority. Does that mean they express a kind of necessity? In this important work, Parrish defends an affirmative answer and explores possible explanations. He offers a meticulous, wide-ranging evaluation of competing metaethical options before concluding that trinitarian theism is the strongest ground for moral necessity. This book greatly clarifies the nature of moral obligations and strongly supports the moral argument for God's existence."" --Angus J. L. Menuge, Professor of Philosophy, Concordia University of Wisconsin ""Stephen Parrish has already published excellent volumes in several of the most technical philosophical areas, including works in epistemology and metaphysics, among others. Now he has ventured into the foundation of ethical theory: is there an underlying ontological grounding that undergirds human obligations that often appear as moral 'oughts, ' as in obligatory decisions and actions? Focusing on this chief issue among the myriad sub-issues in this field, Parrish has hit yet another grand slam! Highly recommended!"" --Gary R. Habermas, Distinguished Research Professor, Liberty University ""Parrish leads his readers on a rigorous pursuit for the origin and nature of moral obligation. He demonstrates the reality of these 'oughts, ' both within the human experience and then as necessary and objective realities. Marching through the full range of philosophical possibilities, he brings us to the nature of God and the Holy Trinity, in particular. This enriching journey is certain to stimulate important conversations in the common quest for the common good."" --Charles R. Schulz, Professor of Theology, Concordia University, Chicago ""Steve Parrish's work has been a tremendous inspiration to me, and this book is certainly no exception. In an eminently accessible way, Parrish brings his prodigious gifts to bear and offers a treasure trove of rich insights about the history of ethics and the metaethical terrain, delivering needed clarity and depth of analysis. Attentive readers will benefit immensely from these explorations."" --David Baggett, co-author of Reasonable Moral Faith

Author Information

Stephen E. Parrish is Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at Concordia University Ann Arbor, where he worked for twenty-three years. His PhD in Philosophy is from Wayne State University in Detroit. He has published three previous books, including God and Necessity; The Knower and the Known; and Atheism? A Critical Analysis. He and his wife have three children and six grandchildren.

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