Author
Ralph Barton Perry
1876-1957
Ralph Barton Perry (1876-1957) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Ralph Barton Perry
The Approach to Philosophy
"The Approach to Philosophy" by Ralph Barton Perry is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. The work explores the relationship between philosophy and the practical experiences of life, aiming to make philosophical concepts accessible to the general reader. Through this exploration, Perry seeks to illustrate how philosophical inquiry emerges from everyday human interests and experiences, bridging the gap between abstract thought and practical life. The opening of the book sets the stage for Perry's inquiry into what philosophy is and should be, arguing against the prevailing notion that philosophy is an exclusive academic pursuit detached from the realities of everyday life. He emphasizes that philosophy is intimately tied to practical existence and that understanding one’s life purpose leads naturally to philosophical reflection. Perry notes that individuals do not start from a blank slate; instead, they engage in a series of preordained customs and purposes shaped by their environment, ultimately challenging readers to consider their own philosophical inclinations as inherent parts of their living experience. He aims to demonstrate that philosophy can grow out of the interests already present in every individual, urging readers to recognize the philosophical dimensions within their own lives.
The Moral Economy
"The Moral Economy" by Ralph Barton Perry is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. This work is a preliminary sketch of a system of ethics that explores the concept of morality through a practical lens, aiming to link ethical theory with everyday reflections on moral issues. The author seeks to establish a framework where morality is seen as a fundamental organization of life, driven by the interplay of interests, and demonstrates its relevance to human existence and societal structures. At the start of the text, Perry presents a foundational perspective on morality, arguing that it is not merely a social construct or dogma but rather a necessary principle for organized life. He posits that morality is rooted in the practical necessities of human interactions and experiences. The opening chapter discusses the challenges and misconceptions surrounding morality, emphasizing the importance of examining life's fundamental interests and how they intersect. Perry cautions against dismissing established moral institutions as obsolete while advocating for a deeper understanding of moral values through the lens of individual and collective interests, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive ethical exploration throughout the work.