Metaphysics as a guide to morals
(Book)

Originally published: London : Chatto & Windus, 1992.

"This book is based on the 1982 Gifford lectures given at the University of Edinburgh"--Title page verso.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 513-514) and index.

Based on the Gifford Lectures, University of Edinburgh, 1982.

The decline of religion and ever increasing influence of science pose acute ethical issues for us all. Can we reject the literal truth of the Gospels yet still retain a Christian morality? Can we defend any 'moral values' against the constant encroachments of technology? Indeed, are we in danger of losing most of the qualities which make us truly human? Here, drawing on a novelist's insight into art, literature and abnormal psychology, Iris Murdoch conducts an ongoing debate with major writers, thinkers and theologians - from Augustine to Wittgenstein, Shakespeare to Sartre, Plato to Derrida - to provide fresh and compelling answers to these crucial questions.