Publication date:
29 October 2009Length of book:
168 pagesPublisher
Lexington BooksDimensions:
240x163mm6x9"
ISBN-13: 9780739139363
Desert and Virtue: A Theory of Intrinsic Value presents a comprehensive examination of desert and what makes people deserve things. Stephen Kershnar demonstrates how desert relates to virtue, good deeds, moral responsibility, and personal change and growth through the life process. He persuasively argues that desert is a function that relates well-being, intrinsic value, and a "ground," which is defined as a person's character or act. Kershnar also explores whether his theory is consistent with the limited responsibility people have for who they are. Desert and Virtue's insightful analysis will be particularly useful for those interested in philosophy, religion, and other fields that touch on value theory.
This book makes a valuable and original contribution to the literature on desert. The argumentation is admirably clear and concise and the overall picture that emerges is in many ways a plausible and attractive one. Anyone interested in the issues Kershnar discusses will benefit from engaging with this fine work.