Parfit

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Derek Parfit (1942-2017) is a renowned philosopher whose work remains influential yet often overlooked. His 1984 publication, Reasons and Persons, is considered a philosophical masterpiece, focusing on the importance of prioritizing the common good over individual interests. The book is rich with detailed arguments and innovative thought experiments that challenge conventional notions of personal identity, the nature of reasons for action, and our responsibilities to future generations. Parfit advocated for a grand unified theory of morality, termed theory x, positing that major moral theories converge towards a single ethical truth. His impact extends beyond philosophy into areas like climate ethics, poverty alleviation, and charitable giving. In this comprehensive biography, Dave Edmonds explores Parfit's life and intellectual journey, portraying him as a pivotal moral philosopher of the last century. Despite his remarkable intellect, Parfit's life appeared uneventful, largely spent in academic institutions and focused on ideas. Edmonds reveals how this son and grandson of missionaries transformed from a sociable history student into a dedicated philosopher committed to moral improvement. He makes Parfit's complex ideas more accessible, bringing to life the thoughts of a thinker who captivated a generation of philosophers.