Responsibility and Control: A Theory of Moral Responsibility

Cambridge Studies in Philosophy and Law

by John Martin Fischer, Mark Ravizza

This book provides a comprehensive, systematic theory of moral responsibility. The authors explore the conditions under which individuals are morally responsible for actions, omissions, consequences, and emotions. The leading idea in the book is that moral responsibility is based on "guidance control." This control has two components: the mechanism that issues in the relevant behavior must be the agent's own mechanism, and it must be appropriately responsive to reasons. The book develops an account of both components. The authors go on to offer a sustained defense of the thesis that moral responsibility is compatible with causal determinism. This major study will interest moral philosophers, legal theorists, and those in religious studies concerned with the issue of moral responsibility.

Genres: Philosophy, Nonfiction

277 pages, Paperback

First published February 13, 1998

Reviews

[Robin He · Rating 5 out of 5]

Precludes alternative possibilties and sets up internal mechanisms as a stronger condition for freewill.

[Lau Lau · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book on moral responsibility. Their view is the one I am the most in favor of.

[Kramer Thompson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very philosophically satisfying, and reasonably enjoyable to read. I'm a big fan of guidance control and Fischer and Ravizza did a great job spelling out how it works. Well worth the read.

[Millie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love it