Darwinian Natural Right

The Biological Ethics of Human Nature

By Larry Arnhart | Publisher: State University of New York Press

About the book

This book shows how Darwinian biology supports an Aristotelian view of ethics as rooted in human nature. Defending a conception of \"Darwinian natural right\" based on the claim that the good is the desirable, the author argues that there are at least twenty natural desires that are universal to all human societies because they are based in human biology. The satisfaction of these natural desires constitutes a universal standard for judging social practice as either fulfilling or frustrating human nature, although prudence is required in judging what is best for particular circumstances.

The author studies the familial bonding of parents and children and the conjugal bonding of men and women as illustrating social behavior that conforms to Darwinian natural right. He also studies slavery and psychopathy as illustrating social behavior that contradicts Darwinian natural right. He argues as well that the natural moral sense does not require religious belief, although such belief can sometimes reinforce the dictates of nature.

Editions of Darwinian Natural Right

Hardcover
ISBN 9780791436936
Paperback
ISBN 9780791436943
PDF
ISBN 9780791495308

Read an Excerpt

This book shows how Darwinian biology supports an Aristotelian view of ethics as rooted in human nature. Defending a conception of \"Darwinian natural right\" based on the claim that the good is the desirable, the author argues that there are at least twenty natural desires that are universal to all human societies because they are based in human biology. The satisfaction of these natural desires constitutes a universal standard for judging social practice as either fulfilling or frustrating human nature, although prudence is required in judging what is best for particular circumstances.

The author studies the familial bonding of parents and children and the conjugal bonding of men and women as illustrating social behavior that conforms to Darwinian natural right. He also studies slavery and psychopathy as illustrating social behavior that contradicts Darwinian natural right. He argues as well that the natural moral sense does not require religious belief, although such belief can sometimes reinforce the dictates of nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Darwinian Natural Right about?

This book shows how Darwinian biology supports an Aristotelian view of ethics as rooted in human nature. Defending a conception of \"Darwinian natural right\" based on the claim that the good is the desirable, the author argues that there are at least twenty natural desires that are universal to all human societies because they are based in human biology. The satisfaction of these natural desires constitutes a universal standard for judging social practice as either fulfilling or frustrating human nature, although prudence is required in judging what is best for particular circumstances.

The author studies the familial bonding of parents and children and the conjugal bonding of men and women as illustrating social behavior that conforms to Darwinian natural right. He also studies slavery and psychopathy as illustrating social behavior that contradicts Darwinian natural right. He argues as well that the natural moral sense does not require religious belief, although such belief can sometimes reinforce the dictates of nature.

What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Darwinian Natural Right?

Philosophy and Religion > Philosophy

Where can I read a sample of Darwinian Natural Right?

You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780791436936

How long is Darwinian Natural Right and how many pages does it have?

Darwinian Natural Right has 348 page(s)

Is Darwinian Natural Right part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?

Yes it is a part of series SUNY series in Philosophy and Biology

Who is/are the Author/s of the book Darwinian Natural Right?

Larry Arnhart

Who is the Publisher of the book Darwinian Natural Right?

State University of New York Press

What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?

Darwinian Natural Right is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780791436936) and paperback(ISBN 9780791436943) and pdf(ISBN 9780791495308)

Where can I buy Darwinian Natural Right online or support local independent bookshops?

You can buy Darwinian Natural Right from below

Where can I buy Darwinian Natural Right?