G. J. Warnock (1923–1995)

First published in 1967, the moral philosophy it deals with is undoubtedly less 'contemporary' than it once was. However, philosophy is a relatively slow moving animal, and so the book is still a useful guide to certain areas of moral debate. It is short (77 pages or so) and deals with three main theories: intuitionism, emotivism, and prescriptivism (the latter at most length). There are also additional chapters which briefly set out the author's own position on more general questions. Considering how brief it is in scope and length, it's not the best introduction to ethics, but it is nonetheless a good account of early to middle 20th century moral philosophy. Ideal for a student on a degree course, perhaps, who wants to supplement other reading with something more focused and specific.

Gareth Southwell is a philosopher, writer and illustrator.… (more)

OK, I'm giving up in this one (a rare thing as I usually finish what I've started), not because it's no good, but because I don't understand it! Obviously, I can't rate it as I have no basis upon which to do so.

I think if I was studying philosophy, this book would possibly (if it's not out of date) be a useful text book, however, I picked it up in a dilettante mood, only to find that it's beyond me and I don't have the time or the inclination to learn the background necessary for comprehension.

Oh, well, onto the next thing. I shan't look at a tomato the same way again, though.… (more)