Ethics

by John Dewey

"Ethics" by John Dewey and James Hayden Tufts is a philosophical treatise on moral theory written in the early 20th century. The text seeks to explore moral problems through a historical lens, emphasizing the relationship between individual conduct and the broader social environment. The authors aim to illuminate how our moral judgments evolve, encouraging a reflective and scientific approach to ethical questions. The opening of the work introduces key concepts and outlines the overall structure of the text. It emphasizes the complexity of ethical conduct, which is influenced by both internal motivations and external societal standards. Dewey and Tufts stress the importance of tracing the historical roots of morality to understand its current manifestations, arguing that ethical principles must evolve alongside social developments. This foundation sets the stage for a detailed examination of moral judgment, the growth of ethical concepts, and the role of various societal influences in shaping individual conduct.