Beyond Optimizing: a Study of Rational Choice
Slote, Michael
Sold by Labyrinth Books, Princeton, NJ, U.S.A.
AbeBooks Seller since December 18, 2023
New - Hardcover
Condition: New
Ships within U.S.A.
Quantity: 1 available
Add to basketSold by Labyrinth Books, Princeton, NJ, U.S.A.
AbeBooks Seller since December 18, 2023
Condition: New
Quantity: 1 available
Add to basketPhilosophy, economics, and decision theory have long been dominated by the idea that rational choice consists of seeking or achieving one's own greatest good. Beyond Optimizing argues that our ordinary understanding of practical reason is more complex than this, and also that optimizing/maximizing views are inadequately supported by the considerations typically offered in their favor.
Michael Slote challenges the long-dominant conception of individual rationality, which has to a large extent shaped the very way we think about the essential problems and nature of rationality, morality, and the relations between them. He contests the accepted view by appealing to a set of real-life examples, claiming that our intuitive reaction to these examples illustrates a significant and prevalent, if not always dominant, way of thinking. Slote argues that common sense recognizes that one can reach a point where "enough is enough," be satisfied with what one has, and, hence, rationally decline an optimizing alternative. He suggests that, in the light of common sense, optimizing behavior is often irrational. Thus, Slote is not merely describing an alternative mode of rationality; he is offering a rival theory. And the numerous parallels he points out between this common-sense theory of rationality and common-sense morality are then shown to have important implications for the long-standing disagreement between commonsense morality and utilitarian consequentialism. Beyond Optimizing is notable for its use of a much richer vocabulary of criticism than optimizing/maximizing models ever call upon. And it further argues that recent empirical investigations of the development of altruism and moral motivation need to be followed up by psychological studies of how moderation, and individual rationality more generally, take shape within developing individuals.
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
Purchase will be shipped upon receipt of payment including any additional shipping costs. NJ residents add appropriate sales tax. If you are dissatisfied (Incorrect Item/Not as Described/Damaged) or if the order has not arrived by the latest estimated delivery date, you maybe be eligible for a refund within 30 days of the estimated delivery date. Please contact us for any other return inquiries, and we will respond within 2 business days.
Orders usually ship within 2 business days. Shipping costs are based on books weighing 2.2 lbs or less, or 1 kg. Heavy or oversized books may require additional shipping charges.
Domestic shipping: Under 2.2 lbs
Media Mail $4.00 per book + $1.00 for each additional book
Priority Mail $7.00 per book + $3.00 for each additional book
Standard Shipping orders will be delivered via UPS Ground and USPS Media Mail, typically 2-5 business days for in-stock items. In-stock items will generally ship by the next business day.
Please note: While the overwhelming majority of packages shipped via USPS Media Mail arrive within the time specified above, in rare cases shipments can take up to 3 to 5 weeks to arrive. Media Mail shipments to Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico and APO/FPO addresses can take up 3 to 8 weeks to arrive.
| Order quantity | 4 to 8 business days | 2 to 5 business days |
|---|---|---|
| First item | US$ 4.50 | US$ 13.00 |
Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.