Is there an objective morality? If there is, how do we find it? If there isn't, how do we prevent infinite moral regress?

Such questions have plagued philosophers for centuries, yet remain unanswered. However, every so often, there comes a theory that seems to go farther in the path of progress than anything before it, paving the way for new discussions and a renewed faith in moral philosophy.

19th-century philosopher-psychologist William James treatise on ethics, The Moral Philosopher and the Moral Life, is exactly that. James explores the possibility of a perfectly ethical world, and how sentient beings with vastly different desires would go about realising such a world.

In this episode, we talk of similar themes using James's paper as a focal point and think specifically of how one might use psychology, metaphysics, and casuistry to solve some of life's most ambiguous problems.

Mentioned in the episode:

The Moral Philosopher and the Moral Life