The Metaphysics of Autonomy: The Reconciliation of Ancient and Modern Ideals of the Person

Coeckelbergh (philosophy, U. of Maastricht) investigates whether it is possible to construct a viable and acceptable ideal of the autonomous person, and if so, whether it come with a price. He begins by setting out what he believes to be the modern ideal of autonomy, contrasting it with the ancient ideals of Plato and Augustine, and trying to reconcile the two. Then he explores possible alternatives, from Sartre, the Frankfurt school, Kant, and T. Hill's interpretation of Kant. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR