Review Of "Problem-Based Ethics: A New Approach To The Application Of Moral Theory" By S. Kahn

Document Type

Book Review

Publication Date

7-2025

Published In

Choice

Abstract

Problem-Based Ethics is a compendium of arguments for and against positions on 22 different topics (each chapter approximately 15–20 pages long). Kahn (Indiana Univ. Indianapolis) makes no claim to advancing original arguments but aspires instead to give researchers, primarily graduate students, a “lay of the land” on each topic. Most, but not all, of the chapters concentrate on normative questions: e.g., the ethics of abortion, punishment, loyalty, the limits of consent, who should rule, the meaning of life, euthanasia, affirmative action, vegetarianism, Black reparations, and sex and gender. Each topic is clearly and engagingly addressed, so there is much to recommend. However, there are two serious problems with, especially given the target audience. First, while the book gives a glimpse of the terrain from a great height, graduate students will want to get closer to the ground to see the complexities of positions and arguments. Second, there are sources readily available (and free) on the internet that provide a substantial discussion of most if not all of the topics in detail with extensive bibliographies: e.g., the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (CH, Sup'06, 43Sup-0193). So despite its virtues, it is not clear that the book justifies its cost. Summing Up: Recommended. With reservations. Graduate students through faculty.

Comments

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