We are discussing no small matter, but how we ought to live. ~ Socrates In Plato’s Republic 

(This essay was reprinted in Critical Perspectives on Abortion (Analyzing the Issues), Anne C. Cunningham, ed., Enslow Publishing 2017, and first appeared on this blog some years ago.) Abortion continues to make political news, but a question rarely asked by politicians or other interlocutors is: what do professional ethicists think about abortion? If ethicists have reached a consensus about the morality … Continue reading The Forthcoming Abortion Decision →

(Humphrey Bogart): A man takes a drop too much once in a while, it’s only human nature.  (Katherine Hepburn): Nature, Mr. Allnut, is what we are put in this world to rise above. ~ The African Queen (1951) Which is more natural for human beings, monogamy1 or polygamy? If one is more natural, does that … Continue reading Monogamy or Polygamy? →

I have previously written about the philosopher David Benatar’s anti-natalism. Oxford University Press has published another of his books The Human Predicament: A Candid Guide to Life’s Biggest Questions.  Here is a brief summary of the book followed by a few comments.

Robots revolt in R.U.R., a 1920 play. Professor and media theorist Douglas Rushkoff penned an article that went viral a few years ago, “Survival of the Richest.” It outlines how the super-wealthy are preparing for doomsday. Here is a recap followed by a brief commentary. Rushkoff was invited to deliver a speech for an unusually large fee, … Continue reading Will The Wealthy Leave Us All Behind? →