Recent Tendencies in Ethics: Three Lectures to Clergy Given at Cambridge

"Recent Tendencies in Ethics" by W. R. Sorley is a collection of philosophical lectures delivered to clergy at Cambridge in the early 20th century. The work aims to summarize and critique contemporary ethical thought, outlining the prevailing debates around moral ideas and principles that have evolved, particularly focusing on the Utilitarian and Intuitionist schools. The opening of the lectures establishes the context for ethical discussions in the previous century, mentioning how these controversies were primarily centered on two key questions: the origin of moral ideas and the criteria for moral value. Sorley highlights that while Utilitarians believe moral values arise from experiences linked to pleasure and pain, Intuitionists argue that moral ideas are innate and primarily spiritual. The subsequent analysis suggests that contemporary ethical discussions are becoming increasingly complex and contentious, moving beyond academic squabbles to a broader reconsideration of moral standards in light of evolving social and philosophical landscapes.