In this compelling exploration, Kristen Monroe interviews five ordinary individuals who risked their lives to rescue Jews during the Holocaust. She argues that their actions stemmed from identity rather than traditional ethical explanations. Through their stories, Monroe reveals how personal perceptions shaped their moral choices, offering insights into ethics and human compassion.
Exploring the phenomenon of altruism, the book delves into the lives of individuals who have performed extraordinary acts of selflessness, such as rescuing Jews during the Holocaust and intervening in violent situations. Through heartfelt interviews, Monroe uncovers the motivations behind these heroic deeds and contrasts altruists with those driven by self-interest. By proposing a new social theory that embraces altruism, the author challenges prevailing notions of human behavior, emphasizing the potential for compassion and self-sacrifice within humanity.
The collection features essays and interviews from leading scientists who delve into the ethical and political implications of scientific advancements. By examining the intersection of science with societal issues, the contributors offer insights into how scientific discoveries can shape and challenge ethical norms and political landscapes. This thought-provoking work encourages readers to consider the broader impact of scientific progress on humanity.
Family, Friendship, Self-Esteem and the Wisdom of the Everyday
Exploring complex ethical concepts, this work delves into themes of identity, agency, and self-esteem, while also addressing forgiveness and familial relationships. The author, a senior ethicist, provides insights into the moral challenges faced in daily life, including dealing with loss and cultivating moral imagination. Through a thoughtful examination of childhood experiences, the book sheds light on the unspoken moral lessons that shape our understanding of family, friendship, and personal growth.
"This is a book about moral choice and courage. It is not, however, an abstract work of moral philosophy or psychology. Rather it is an exploration of the choices made by real individuals faced by moral quandaries. Monroe and her students interviewed people who faced moral dilemmas to see what motivated them to make difficult moral choices. These ranged from public officials dealing with issues of honesty and equity in public policy, to individuals facing private difficulties as well as people who choose to focus their lives helping those in need. What explains a courageous choice? Monroe argues that moral courage comes from one's understanding of their identity. As she found in her previous work on rescuers of Jews during the holocaust, the people she interviews in this book felt that they had no choice but to take a courageous stand. Monroe explores how this identity develops through the life stories of these individuals"--