Beyond telling us how to act, Driver dives into the nature of ethics itself. She touches on vs. Objectivism , questioning whether moral truths are universal or merely cultural constructs. She also addresses moral psychology, asking why we feel compelled to act ethically and whether "altruism" is truly possible or if all actions are ultimately self-interested. The Value of the Text
Shifting from "what should I do" to "what kind of person should I be," Driver explores how character and habits form the basis of morality. She examines the "Golden Mean"—finding the virtuous balance between extremes (e.g., courage as the middle ground between cowardice and recklessness). Metaethics and Moral Psychology Ethics: The Fundamentals (Fundamentals of Philo...
Driver explains the "Greatest Happiness Principle," where the morality of an action is judged solely by its outcome. She navigates the classic critiques—such as the potential for "tyranny of the majority"—and distinguishes between act utilitarianism (evaluating each deed) and rule utilitarianism (evaluating general principles). Beyond telling us how to act, Driver dives
This section focuses on duty and the "Categorical Imperative." Driver illustrates Kant’s belief that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their consequences. She highlights the importance of treating others as "ends in themselves" rather than as tools. She also addresses moral psychology, asking why we