Moral Theory (Routledge Library Editions: Ethics) - Classic

In this review of Moral Theory by G. C. Field the bottom line is clear: this is a compact, scholarly introduction for readers who want a historically grounded, systematic presentation of ethics. Originally published in 1921 and revised in 1932 with a 1966 reissue introduction by Stephan Korner, the book stands out for giving sustained, readable accounts of both Aristotelian and Kantian approaches. The main reason to buy is its clear comparison of two dominant moral frameworks, which makes it useful for students and general readers seeking a single-volume, historically informed guide to core ethical theory.

Key Features

• Historical and systematic balance: The book combines a historical survey with systematic exposition so readers can see how ideas developed and how they fit into contemporary debates.
• Focus on Aristotle: Much of the text is devoted to Aristotle, which helps readers understand virtue ethics and its practical orientation.
• Thorough coverage of Kant: Field gives a clear account of Kantian moral theory, useful for comparing duty-based ethics to virtue-based approaches.
• Accessible language: Written as an introduction, the prose aims to be clear and instructive for students and interested general readers rather than technical specialists.
• Enduring edition: The 1966 reissue with an introduction by Stephan Korner situates the work for mid-20th century readers and preserves the original scholarship.

Who It's For

This edition is best for undergraduates, philosophy students, and general readers who want a concise, historically informed primer that places Aristotle and Kant at the center of ethical theory. It works well as assigned reading where a single-author guide helps bridge primary texts and modern classroom discussion.

Readers seeking a contemporary textbook with extensive modern references, exercises, or a survey of recent moral philosophy literature should look elsewhere; this book is primarily a classical, early 20th-century treatment rather than a modern survey of every current debate.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clear comparative treatment of Aristotelian and Kantian ethics aids understanding of their contrasts and overlaps.
• Historical context combined with systematic analysis makes complex ideas approachable for learners.
• The reissue introduction by Stephan Korner helps orient the text within mid-20th-century philosophy.

Cons

• The book is an older treatment and does not engage with many late 20th- or 21st-century developments in moral philosophy.

Specifications

Title	Moral Theory (Routledge Library Editions: Ethics)
Author	G. C. Field
Original publication	1921 (revised 1932)
Reissue	1966 with introduction by Stephan Korner
Focus areas	Aristotelian ethics, Kantian ethics, historical and systematic introduction
Intended audience	Students and general readers seeking an introduction to ethics

Our Verdict

Moral Theory remains a valuable introductory text for those who want a concise, historically informed comparison of Aristotle and Kant. It offers clear exposition and a systematic structure that make it good value for students and readers who prefer classical presentations, though those needing modern debates and extensive contemporary bibliography should supplement it with newer works.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this edition include modern commentary?
The 1966 reissue contains an introduction by Stephan Korner but the main text is Field's earlier work and does not survey late 20th- or 21st-century literature.

Is it suitable for first-time readers of philosophy?
Yes. The book is written as an introduction and is accessible to students and general readers with no specialist background.

Which moral theories are emphasized?
The text devotes substantial attention to Aristotle and Kant, using both historical and systematic approaches to explain their moral theories.