Academic

Legal Theory Bookworm

By Lawrence Solum

The Legal Theory Bookworm recommends a three volume set, edited by Walter Sinnott-Armstrong:

Moral Psychology, Volume 1: The Evolution of Morality: Adaptations and Innateness

Moral Psychology, Volume 2: The Cognitive Science of Morality: Intuition and Diversity

Moral Psychology, Volume 3: The Neuroscience of Morality: Emotion, Brain Disorders, and Development

Here is a description:

For much of the twentieth century, philosophy and science went their separate ways. In moral philosophy, fear of the so-called naturalistic fallacy kept moral philosophers from incorporating developments in biology and psychology. Since the 1990s, however, many philosophers have drawn on recent advances in cognitive psychology, brain science, and evolutionary psychology to inform their work. This collaborative trend is especially strong in moral philosophy, and these three volumes bring together some of the most innovative work by both philosophers and psychologists in this emerging interdisciplinary field.

And from the reviews:

"Moral Psychology is a remarkable publishing achievement. Sinnott-Armstrong has a real talent for drawing together the cutting-edge researchers in the field, and letting them present their positions and challenge each other. These three substantial volumes cover many of the newer and more exciting issues being raised in ethics and moral psychology today. Essential reading for anyone who wants to know where the field is heading." --Peter Singer, Ira W. Decamp Professor of Bioethics in the University Center for Human Values, Princeton University

"In the last decade moral psychology has been transformed into one of the most interesting and important areas of interdisciplinary research--a field where philosophers, psychologists, neuroscientists, anthropologists and economists interact productively. Recent theories and findings have generated a genuine and justified sense of intellectual excitement. If you want to see what all the excitement is about, this book is a great place to start." --Stephen Stich, Board of Governors Professor of Philosophy and Cognitive Science, Rutgers University

"Moral Psychology represents a powerful and penetrating discussion of the emerging science of moral behavior. Each volume cross-examines important arguments which lead to fascinating dialogues on this compelling subject. With these volumes, Sinnot-Armstrong is revealed as a leading mind in this field." --Michael S. Gazzaniga, Director, Sage Center for the Study of the Mind, University of California, Santa Barbara

Full post as published by Legal Theory Blog on March 22, 2008 (boomark / email).