The Structural Evolution of Morality - Softcover

McKenzie Alexander, J.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521152690 ISBN 13: 9780521152693

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2010

Synopsis

It is certainly the case that morality governs the interactions that take place between individuals. But what if morality exists because of these interactions? This book, first published in 2007, argues for the claim that much of the behaviour we view as 'moral' exists because acting in that way benefits each of us to the greatest extent possible, given the socially structured nature of society. Drawing upon aspects of evolutionary game theory, the theory of bounded rationality, and computational models of social networks, it shows both how moral behaviour can emerge in socially structured environments, and how it can persist even when it is not typically viewed as 'rational' from a traditional economic perspective. This book also provides a theory of how moral principles and the moral sentiments play an indispensable role in effective choice, acting as 'fast and frugal heuristics' in social decision contexts.

About this title

Book Description

Drawing upon aspects of evolutionary game theory, the theory of bounded rationality, and computational models of social networks, this 2007 book shows how moral behaviour can emerge in socially structured environments, and how it can persist even when it is not typically viewed as 'rational' from a traditional economic perspective.

About the Author

J. McKenzie Alexander is Reader in Philosophy in the Department of Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2010
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521152690
• ISBN 13: 9780521152693
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 312