From pre-Christian times until the present day, philosophers have discussed whether, given evil, belief in God can logically be maintained. Theists and non-theists remain unconvinced by one another's arguments. This study re-examines the question of God and evil from a neutral standpoint and claims that neither side has come to adequate grips either with the question itself or with the other side's case, chiefly because of failure to distinguish the kinds of problem raised by evil.

Accounts of moral reasoning have tended either to ignore the differences in what men count as good reasons for their moral judgments, or, in emphasizing these differences, to imply that anything whatsoever can count as a moral reason. This book shows that both of these positions rest on a mistaken assumption, and by rejecting this assumption brings out important features of moral discourse. Although moral disagreement is seen to be far more radical than empirical disagreement, a framework of agreement is shown to be a precondition of moral discourse, and even of the possibility of individual...

Humanism and Ideology focuses on the philosophical problems that confront the humanist who also wishes to be an ideologue, who wishes to claim that certain ideals are worthy of regard by all mankind. The problem of ethical skepticism is of central importance to the book's discussion. Questions as to whether belief in ethical truth is compatible with tolerance; the relationship of natural law to natural right; and the relationship of happiness to moral goodness are all examined by drawing upon the ancient philosophers, particularly Aristotle, as well as upon contemporary analytical philosophy.

First published in 2003. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.