The Battle for Compassion: Ethics in an Apathetic Universe - Couverture souple

Leighton, Jonathan

Couverture souple

ISBN 10 : 0875868703 ISBN 13 : 9780875868707

Editeur : Algora Publishing, 2011

Synopsis

Six hundred years after Copernicus presented his revolutionary and heretical heliocentric theory, a sunset can still look unexpectedly new. What if the fate of our world depended on a similar shift in perspective?

The threats to our existence and the persistence of intense suffering are closely intertwined issues with similar underlying causes. Addressing them honestly requires us to reflect deeply and detachedly on who we are, probe the boundaries of ethical thinking, and ask some really big questions. What are the basic forces driving our species' trajectory, and where are they leading us? What really matters at the most fundamental level? And what, consequently, would it realistically take for us to align our world with what matters and preserve a future worth living in? This book is a reflection on these pivotal questions and an attempt to offer some answers. Through a detailed examination of history, philosophy, and human psychology, the book uncovers the reasons behind widespread apathy and moral inertia. Leighton explores how evolutionary biology, social structures, and cultural narratives have shaped our ethical behaviors and attitudes. He emphasizes the importance of understanding suffering and acting to reduce harm as foundational principles for personal growth, societal progress, and global cooperation.

The book provides practical insights into applying compassionate ethics in the face of modern challenges, including environmental degradation, social inequality, and political polarization. Leighton offers actionable strategies for fostering empathy and altruism in our interactions and decision-making.

Just as the beauty of a sunset blinds us to the actual mechanics of the phenomenon, our illusions and preconceptions subtly but significantly distort our understanding of the nature of our relationship to the world and hide a larger sense of meaning. These pages look at the human condition and explore the relationship between the subjective and objective aspects of it, i.e. how things actually feel and the physical reality dictating it all. Ideally, by shifting the perspective from which we understand our existence, we may find a way to reconcile our desire to enjoy life in an intuitive way with these existential considerations, and use this understanding to have a positive impact on the world. Leighton invites readers to confront the apathy within themselves and their communities, inspiring action to build a world rooted in care, understanding, and justice.

Détails de l'édition

• Éditeur: Algora Publishing
• Date d'édition: 2011
• Langue: anglais
• ISBN 10: 0875868703
• ISBN 13: 9780875868707
• Reliure: Broché
• Nombre de pages: 262
• Coordonnées du fabricant: non disponible
• Personne responsable: non disponible