Exploring the intersection of ethics and politics, this collection of essays by David Braybrooke addresses various practical concerns. Key themes include the significance of people's interests and needs, the nature of work and commitment, and the role of social participation. Through these discussions, Braybrooke delves into how ethical considerations shape political decisions and societal structures.
The book explores the intersection of philosophical developments in the logic of rules and economic theories regarding rules. It aims to clarify how these philosophical concepts relate to economic ideas, offering a unique perspective on the legal framework and its implications. This pioneering effort seeks to bridge the gap between legal philosophy and economic thought, providing insights into the logical structures that underpin both fields.
The book presents a robust defense of the concept of needs in shaping social policies, countering criticisms from economists who argue it lacks clarity and utility compared to preferences. David Braybrooke offers a model demonstrating the effective application of needs, illustrating its significance and potential in addressing social issues. Through this analysis, he seeks to restore the credibility of the needs concept in policy discussions.
Focusing on the evolution of utilitarianism, David Braybrooke reexamines Jeremy Bentham's foundational idea that social policies should be guided by statistical evidence. He critiques both rule-utilitarianism and act-utilitarianism, arguing that act-utilitarianism relies on rules for practical application. By proposing a census-based approach instead of the traditional hedonistic calculus, Braybrooke addresses criticisms of utilitarianism, particularly regarding life-sacrifices and happiness. His reinterpretation aligns with Bentham's vision while offering a more coherent framework for understanding happiness in social policies.
David Braybrooke delves into Analytical Political Philosophy, examining the interplay of needs, rights, and rules through a collection of his previous studies. He offers a unique perspective on how these concepts shape political discourse and contribute to the process of edification, enriching the understanding of political philosophy.
The book presents a provocative argument that influential theorists such as Hobbes, Locke, Hume, and Rousseau were significantly influenced by St. Thomas Aquinas, rather than diverging from his natural law theory. Braybrooke meticulously analyzes how these canonical figures integrated Aquinas's ideas into their own philosophical frameworks, challenging established scholarly views and offering a fresh perspective on the evolution of political thought.
Social Rules is a pioneering effort to bring together perspectives and insights on social rules from philosophers, lawyers, anthropologists, and sociologists, and economists.