Altruism, Niall Scott and Jonathan Seglow, Open University Press, 2007. In the Concepts in the Social Sciences series.
(Open University Press., McGraw Hill Education. McGraw Hill House, Shoppenhangers Road, Maidenhead, Berks. SL6 2QL.)
Many philosophical, anthropological and psychological theorists would argue that all human behaviour is based upon naked (or carefully disguised) egoism. However, most of us have witnessed in others, or personally initiated generous behaviour and extended acts of kindness for which no obvious intrinsic egoistical gratification or public reward has either been expected or received.
UCLAN philosophy lecturer Dr. Niall Scott and Senior Lecturer in Political Science, Jonathan Seglow's ( Royal Holloway) newest research enterprise: ‘ Altruism’ provides a welcome addition to The Open University’s celebrated ‘ Concept’s in the Social Sciences‘ series. Scott and Seglow's synergistically created reference work is felicitously enhanced in this mutually productive academic coupling of which we hope to see more.
The pairs’ collaborative magisterial overview of the history, nature and quality of unselfish concern for the welfare of others is surely destined to become a standard reference work in all philosophy departments and is a sine qua non source for any ambitious student researching the ethical wellsprings of human benignity and generosity of spirit.
Written in the engagingly clear, unfussy and penetrating style so esteemed by Scott admirers familiar with his lectures, the work is ideally suited for a wider audience. Altruismoffers an illuminating and valuable handbook for the harassed taxpayer intent upon identifying and disentangling the prevalent pretensions from the infrequent realities of ‘selfless public service,’ and the worthless blandishments of covert ‘private greed’ from genuine promises of quality and service made by suppliers of public and private sector goods and services in contemporary consumer society.
As a student, consumer and taxpayer I only wish this book had been on the market three years ago when my philosophy course began – but better later than never!
Jud Evans.