Who was Derek Parfit? | David Edmonds (Rebroadcast)

Derek Parfit's "Reasons and Persons" is a landmark work in contemporary philosophy, profoundly impacting discussions on personal identity, ethics, and rationality. Parfit challenges traditional notions of the self, arguing that our sense of personal identity is less coherent than we assume. He explores the implications of this for our moral obligations, particularly concerning future generations. The book delves into the complexities of decision-making under uncertainty, examining how we should weigh our present interests against the potential consequences of our actions for the future. Parfit's rigorous analysis and thought-provoking arguments have had a lasting influence on various fields, including ethics, political philosophy, and decision theory. His work continues to stimulate debate and inspire new research.

The Skeptical Feminist explores the history of feminism, discussing the key issues, debates, and accomplishments of the feminist movement. Radcliffe-Richards challenges both traditional and radical feminist viewpoints, advocating for a more pragmatic and balanced approach. The book critiques essentialist views of gender and emphasizes the importance of individual choice and autonomy. It examines topics such as sex differences, discrimination, and the role of ideology in shaping feminist thought. Radcliffe-Richards encourages readers to critically assess feminist claims and consider alternative perspectives. This book provides a critical examination of feminist theories and their practical implications.