The Virtues of Our Vices: A Modest Defense of Gossip, Rudeness, and Other Bad Habits

Westacott, Emrys

ISBN 10: 0691141991 / ISBN 13: 9780691141992

Published by Princeton University Press, 2011

About this Item

First Edition. Clean text, tight binding. NOT ex-library, belonged to James Naiden. A prolific writer, poet, literary critic, and editor, Jim Naiden was a seminal figure on the Twin Cities literary scene. He helped to shape the early poetry 'scene' in Minnesota and beyond, through his literary journal The North Stone Review (1972-2002) and a seminal series of poetry readings in the 80's featuring Robert Bly, Louis Jenkins, Phebe Hanson, and many other Minnesota poets who would make their mark. His literary reviews were published locally and in journals across the country, and also the Paris Review. His style was discriminating, sometimes cutting, and generous. His notes are on the back inside cover and various newpaper clippings relating to the book and his review are included. Dust Jacket in good+ condition. Ships same or next business day from Dinkytown in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Seller Inventory # 284840

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Virtues of Our Vices: A Modest Defense of Gossip, Rudeness, and Other Bad Habits
• Publisher: Princeton University Press
• Publication Date: 2011
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0691141991
• ISBN 13: 9780691141992
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: Very Good
• Dust Jacket Condition: Good+ Dust Jacket
• Weight: 16 ounces

About this title

Synopsis

The hidden value of some of our everyday vices

Are there times when it's right to be rude? Can we distinguish between good and bad gossip? Am I a snob if I think that NPR listeners are likely to be better informed than devotees of Fox News? Does sick humor do anyone any good? Can I think your beliefs are absurd but still respect you?

In The Virtues of Our Vices, philosopher Emrys Westacott takes a fresh look at important everyday ethical questions―and comes up with surprising answers. He makes a compelling argument that some of our most common vices―rudeness, gossip, snobbery, tasteless humor, and disrespect for others' beliefs―often have hidden virtues or serve unappreciated but valuable purposes. For instance, there are times when rudeness may be necessary to help someone with a problem or to convey an important message. Gossip can foster intimacy between friends and curb abuses of power. And dubious humor can alleviate existential anxieties.

Engaging, funny, and philosophically sophisticated, The Virtues of Our Vices challenges us to rethink conventional wisdom when it comes to everyday moral behavior.

About the Author

Emrys Westacott is professor of philosophy at Alfred University in Alfred, New York. His work has been featured in the New York Times and has appeared in the Philosopher's Magazine, Philosophy Now, the Humanist, the Philosophical Forum, and many other publications. He is also the coauthor of Thinking through Philosophy: An Introduction.