Utilitarianism

Barrow has made a novel and important contribution to our understanding of utilitarian theory, especially with his arguments concerning the nature and function of ethical theories and his tripartite account of moral acts. Kenneth F.T. Cust, Canadian Philosophical Review This book is a clear, comprehensive account of a utilitarian theory of ethics. As both an outline and defense of utilitarianism, it will be useful to all students of the subject. Richard Ashcroft, Theological Book Review This engagingly written book is sure to provoke wide discussion. Barrow argues that utilitarianism, correctly understood, has the potential to withstand all the traditional objections. Whether one agrees or not, there is much here that stimulates thought. Dennis Philips, Stanford University, US I have long looked forward to a book on utilitarianism which combines sophistication with clarity. Dr Barrow has produced such a book. It is up-to-date, deals thoroughly with the complexities of the subject, and is consistently lucid. All those many people concerned with morality, whether theoretical or practical, should find it extremely helpful. John Wilson, University of Oxford, UK Building on a fresh conception of the nature of an ethical theory, Professor Barrow claims that utilitarianism is the most coherent and persuasive theory available. Taking due account of recent scholarship in the field, he argues succinctly and persuasively for a specific form of rule-utilitarianism. He seeks to show, in particular, that utilitarianism is not, as critics often suggest, in any way an impoverished view of morality.