The Virtues of Our Vices

Name: The Virtues of Our Vices
Brand: NewSouth Books
SKU: 9780691162218
Price: 91.0 NZD
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A Modest Defense of Gossip, Rudeness, and Other Bad Habits

By Emrys Westacott

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3.46

( 41 ratings, 7 reviews)

Summary

The Virtues of Our Vices by Emrys Westacott explores the intriguing idea that traits traditionally viewed as vices, such as gossip, rudeness, and snobbery, may have redeeming qualities or even be valuable under certain circumstances. The book challenges conventional moral perspectives by examining these behaviours through a philosophical lens, encouraging readers to reconsider their preconceptions about ethics and character.
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Format: Paperback / softback

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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you're intrigued by the philosophical exploration of everyday behaviours often seen as negative, such as gossiping or rudeness. With thought-provoking insights, it challenges conventional ethics and invites readers to consider the potential benefits and nuances of our so-called vices. It's perfect for those interested in understanding the complexity of human behaviour through a philosophical lens.

Are there times when it's right to be rude? Can we distinguish between good and bad gossip? Am I a snob if I think that NPR listeners are likely to be better informed than devotees of Fox News? Does sick humor do anyone any good? Can I think your beliefs are absurd but still respect you? In The Virtues of Our Vices, philosopher Emrys Westacott tak

Description

Are there times when it's right to be rude? Can we distinguish between good and bad gossip? Am I a snob if I think that NPR listeners are likely to be better informed than devotees of Fox News? Does sick humour do anyone any good? Can I think your beliefs are absurd but still respect you?

In The Virtues of Our Vices, philosopher Emrys Westacott takes a fresh look at important everyday ethical questions—and comes up with surprising answers. He makes a compelling argument that some of our most common vices—rudeness, gossip, snobbery, tasteless humour, and disrespect for others' beliefs—often have hidden virtues or serve unappreciated but valuable purposes.

For instance, there are times when rudeness may be necessary to help someone with a problem or to convey an important message. Gossip can foster intimacy between friends and curb abuses of power. And dubious humour can alleviate existential anxieties.

Engaging, funny, and philosophically sophisticated, The Virtues of Our Vices challenges us to rethink conventional wisdom when it comes to everyday moral behaviour.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Emrys Westacott’s The Virtues of Our Vices has been described as an engaging and philosophically sophisticated examination of everyday moral behaviour, challenging conventional wisdom. Reviewers praise its accessibility and humour, while noting that it provokes valuable self-evaluation and discussion about the fluid nature of societal norms. The book is recommended for its insightful and rigorous exploration of how 'bad habits' may reveal unexpected benefits, making it pertinent to both general readers and those interested in philosophy's practical applications.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780691162218

Publisher: Princeton University Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 24 November 2013

Country: United States

Imprint: Princeton University Press

Illustration: 6 line illus.

Audience: Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Width: 140.0mm

Height: 216.0mm

Weight: 369g

Pages: 304

Collections

Emrys Westacott Non-Fiction Philosophy & Psychology Philosophy & Stoicism

About the Author

Emrys Westacott is professor of philosophy at Alfred University in Alfred, New York. His work has been featured in the New York Times and has appeared in the Philosopher's Magazine, Philosophy Now, the Humanist, the Philosophical Forum, and many other publications. He is also the coauthor of Thinking through Philosophy: An Introduction.