What is it to be morally responsible for something? Recent philosophical work reveals considerable disagreement on the question. Indeed, some theorists claim to distinguish several varieties of moral responsibility, with different conditions that must be satisfied if one is to bear responsibility of one or another of these kinds.

Debate on this point turns partly on disagreement about the kinds of responses made appropriate when one is blameworthy or praiseworthy. It is generally agreed that these include "reactive attitudes" such as resentment and gratitude, but theorists disagree about...

The origins of, and in many ways the prototype for, modern reality programming can be traced to Real People, a show that premiered on the NBC network in April of 1979. An instant ratings success, Real People appealed to an audience that clamored for stories about "everyday" men and women. However, many of the vignettes focused on individuals who were far from average--eccentric collectors, allegedly talented performers, and inspirational overachievers--many of whom could be called quirky, if not just plain weird. In the wake of the show's success, a rash of imitators followed. What had...

In The Great Plains, Katie Schmidt is quiet, humble and hard working. Horace O'Leary sees in Katie only greatness, the pride of the industrial, railroad yard-esque Southside of Chicago. Katie is swept off her feet by a handsome pool hustler named Cam and alternately bored by him when he is out late and ignoring her. Katie allows Horace to tell her what Cam cannot and the ensuing love triangle threatens to mock them all. Meanwhile newcomer Betty makes Horace forget all the hard work of unrequited love. Katie finally sees Cam for what he is and becomes what she was always meant to be, perfect...

What is it to be morally responsible for something? Recent philosophical work reveals considerable disagreement on the question. This volume presents twelve original essays from participants in these debates.