Well worth the read. Will help with many assessments.


A perfect introduction to contemporary moral thinking.   September 21, 2000
 4 out of 4 found this review helpful

Morals are, as Rachels quotes Socrates: "No small matter, but how we ought to live." The Elements of Moral Philosophy is a useful introduction to this vast and varied subject because it introduces you to the many different views without ever being glib or shallow, but always with descriptive examples ('An infant with no prospects', 'the question of homosexuality' and the case of the enquiring murderer) that encourage you to develop your ideas, access their validity and to then apply them. This is further helped to break down complex arguments into their main points, clearly set out and discussed. Each of the chapters deals with either one of the major moral philosophical schools or a particular idea and can be read almost as essays on those topics. However, that said, the chapters are neatly set out and logical and easy to read and understand throughout. This is a perfect introductory text for those just starting out and an excellant reference book on the subject of moral philosophy at higher levels.


Excellent introduction to the basics   February 27, 1999
 2 out of 2 found this review helpful

I read Rachels' text for a college course. Though I was somewhat familiar with the concepts therein, I found it to be a great source for the basics of modern western philosophy. Chapters cover egoism, utilitarianism, Kant's Categorical Imperative, religious morality and other well known philosophies.

An excellent first philosophy book. I find it hard to discuss certain things with people if they are not at least peripherally familiar with the concepts in this book. Highly recommended as a first text.


Good book, strong case on what Morals and morality is   February 23, 1999
 1 out of 2 found this review helpful

I have read this book, Rachels gives a strong case on what he beleives to make up moral theory. Although I disagree with him on some issues, this is a good book for anyone to read if they are interested in determining morality in their lives


An easy to read introduction to moral thought.   January 4, 1999
 2 out of 2 found this review helpful

If you're looking for an easy to read introduction to moral thought, then look no further. This book can easily be finished in just a few sittings and remains interesting and thoughtful throughout. My only dislike is the author's attempt to formulate his own 'Philosophy Without Hubris' theory, in which I find many inconsistencies. Still, this is only done in the last chapter and gives the reader a chance to perorm a critical evaluation. For those about to delve into the tumultuous world of moral thought, I highly recommend this book. However, if you're already familiar with the basics, you should probably investigate other titles.