Overview
In this collection of his recent and classic essays, distinguished philosopher Nicholas Rescher explores a variety of contemporary public policy issues ranging from the use of quantitative data in social policy making to problems in biomedical ethics. Offering a rational approach to questions often treated with more heat than light, the essays demonstrate the usefulness of philosophical reflection on social and political issues, and make it clear that questions of moral right and wrong are always relevant.
Synopsis
In this collection of his recent and classic essays, distinguished philosopher Nicholas Rescher explores a variety of contemporary public policy issues ranging from the use of quantitative data in social policy making to problems in biomedical ethics. Offering a rational approach to questions often treated with more heat than light, the essays demonstrate the usefulness of philosophical reflection on social and political issues, and make it clear that questions of moral right and wrong are always relevant.
Author Biography: Nicholas Rescher is university professor of philosophy at the University of Pittsburgh. Among his many books in social philosophy and ethics are "Pluralism: Against the Demand for Consensus" (Oxford University Press, 1993) and "The Validity of Values" (Princeton University Press, 1992).