The Conception of Value

Collected in this volume are the works of Paul Grice, who not only presents a fascinating metaphysical defense of value but also provides a metaphysical foundation for value. Value judgments are viewed as objective; they are part of the world we live in, but are nonetheless constructed by us. We inherit, or seem to inherit, the Aristotelian world in which objects and creatures are characterized by what they are supposed to do. We are thereby enabled to evaluate by reference to function and finality. The most striking part of Grice's position, however, is his contention that the legitimacy of such evaluations rests ultimately on an argument for absolute value. Challenging yet engaging, Grice's ideas are sure to draw a wide range of readers.