Principia Ethica
What is Principia Ethica about?
Principia Ethica (1903) is G. E. Moore's groundbreaking work of moral philosophy that became one of the most influential philosophical texts of the twentieth century. Moore argues that "good" is a simple, unanalyzable quality—attempts to define it in terms of pleasure, evolution, or any natural property commit what he calls the "naturalistic fallacy." He concludes that the greatest goods in life are the pleasures of personal affection and aesthetic appreciation. The book revolutionized academic ethics and profoundly influenced the Bloomsbury Group, whose members adopted Moore's values as a guide for living.
Main themes in Principia Ethica
Moral Philosophy
The presence of moral philosophy in Principia Ethica connects readers to its enduring relevance.
Naturalistic Fallacy
Principia Ethica thoughtfully explores naturalistic fallacy through its central conflicts.
The Good
Principia Ethica thoughtfully explores the good through its central conflicts.
Personal Relationships
Principia Ethica thoughtfully explores personal relationships through its central conflicts.
Why Principia Ethica is still relevant today
Principia Ethica is foundational to modern moral philosophy and had an outsized cultural influence through the Bloomsbury Group.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Principia Ethica about?
Moore argues that goodness cannot be defined in natural terms and that the highest goods are personal affection and aesthetic experience.
Is Principia Ethica difficult?
It is philosophical but clearly written. Moore's arguments are accessible to motivated readers without extensive philosophy training.
Where can I read Principia Ethica online?
You can read it free on TextStack.