The Nature of Ethics

"Chris Angle's Defining Ethics, Good & Evil blends three distinct modes into a successful and creative synthesis. First, in keeping with modern deontological approaches, Angle posits a single principle, respect, as the basis for ethical enquiry, and explores this principle through a surprising and satisfying variety of applications. Second, he couches the entire work in the classic form of the dialogue, which provides not only historical resonance but also underscores the dialectical nature of all ethical thought. Finally, he presents it in a stylized, highly formal diction; this provides a certain abstract detachment. The result is an unique and pragmatically sound exploration of ethics."

Clair McPherson, PhD, Medieval Studies, Master of Divinity, MA, English Literature, Author

Defining Ethics, Good & Evil - Ethics is the study of the good and bad in behaving, and the essence of this good is respect. That is, the more respectful the behavior of an action, the more it is ethical, and this respect is rooted in the evolutionary need for survival. This evolutionary need requires respect for the purpose of cooperation. Hence, ethics is the study of the good of societal cooperation which is facilitated through mutual respect.

Chapter Three defines evil and explains how there can be evil and misery in coexistence with a perfect God.

A later chapter discusses the application of this understanding of ethics to actual problems of ethics such as terrorism, abortion, totalitarianism, and whether the end can ever justify the means.