The knowledge of good: critique of axiological reason

If, as Robert S. Hartman maintained, goodness is complete concept or standard fulfillment, we can assess the goodness or adequacy of a philosophical position only by applying to it a well developed concept of good-making criteria. Good philosophy incorporates conceptual clarity, logical consistency, systematic orderliness, comprehensive inclusiveness, immense explanatory power, faithfulness to experience, relevant applicability, intuitive allure, and fruitfulness in guiding future research. A good philosophy is creatively insightful; it goes further, sees further, illuminates more, pushes back more darkness than other perspectives. It persuasively identifies and illuminates the errors and confusions of its competition. In all these respects, the axiology developed in this book and in other writings by Robert S. Hartman is good philosophy. This book especially is a powerful defense of formal axiology as the premier value theory of the twentieth century. Prior to the publication of this book, professional philosophers have neglected Robert S. Hartman. With its publication, they can no longer afford to do so. This does not mean that Hartman is above reproach, that he did not make mistakes, or that he solves all the problems associated with human values and valuations. It does mean, speaking metaphorically, that he is a heavyweight champion in axiology, or, to use a metaphor he would have preferred, he is a virtuoso.