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Derek Parfit

Reasons and Persons

'Reasons and Persons' by Derek Parfit is a seminal work in moral philosophy that explores the nature of personal identity and its implications for ethics. First published in 1984, the book is divided into four parts, each of which delves into a different aspect of Parfit's theory. In the first part, Parfit examines the concept of personal identity and argues that it is not a deep further fact, but rather a matter of psychological and physical continuity. He claims that our sense of self is not a single, unified entity, but rather a bundle of overlapping mental and physical properties. The second part of the book explores the implications of this view for practical ethics. Parfit argues that our moral obligations to future generations are just as strong as our obligations to those who currently exist. He also examines the concept of moral desert and argues that it is not a coherent concept. The third part of the book is devoted to the question of whether there are any objective reasons for action. Parfit argues that there are, and that they are provided by the non-instrumental goodness or badness of states of affairs. Finally, in the fourth part of the book, Parfit considers the implications of his views for the nature of practical reasoning. He argues that our reasons for action are not determined by our desires, but rather by the non-instrumental goodness or badness of states of affairs. Throughout the book, Parfit employs a clear and rigorous analytic style, making complex philosophical concepts accessible to a wide audience. He also engages with a wide range of philosophical views, providing a comprehensive overview of the debates surrounding personal identity and practical ethics. 'Reasons and Persons' has had a profound impact on the field of moral philosophy, and it continues to be widely read and discussed today. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the nature of personal identity, practical ethics, and the foundations of practical reasoning...