In 'Reasons and Persons,' Derek Parfit delves into the intricate nature of identity, morality, and rationality. He challenges conventional notions of self and argues that personal identity is not as fixed as we believe. Parfit's exploration raises tantalizing questions about what it means to be a person and how our decisions shape our lives. With compelling thought experiments, he invites readers to reconsider their beliefs about ethics and future generations. This groundbreaking work leaves an indelible mark on philosophical thought, compelling us to reflect deeply on our choices and connections.
By Derek Parfit
Published: 1987
"We can often make our lives better by acting for the future, but we should also remember that our decisions now shape the lives and identities of those who will come after us."
Part 1 discusses ways in which theories about morality and rationality can be self-defeating and Part 2 the relations between what a single person can rationally want or do at different times, and what different people can rationally want or do. Parts 3 & 4 tackle personal identity and our obligations to future generations.
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“We can often make our lives better by acting for the future, but we should also remember that our decisions now shape the lives and identities of those who will come after us.”
Reasons and Persons
By Derek Parfit
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Derek Parfit was a distinguished British philosopher known for his groundbreaking contributions to moral philosophy and the philosophy of identity. Born on December 11, 1942, Parfit's most notable works include 'Reasons and Persons' (1984), which examined rationality, moral reasoning, and personal identity, and 'On What Matters' (2011), where he critically explored the nature of normative ethics and the role of moral reasoning. Parfit's writing is characterized by its rigorous analysis, clarity, and profound depth, often engaging with complex philosophical issues in an accessible manner. His influence extends beyond philosophy to ethics, political theory, and decision theory, marking him as a pivotal figure in contemporary ethical thought.
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