Abstract

This work, originally published in 1952 and now given its first English translation, is based on Brentano’s notes for his lectures given at the University of Vienna from 1876 to 1894. Despite originating from notes, the book is clearly and forcefully written and develops Brentano’s views in an orderly, coherent manner. Although influencing such important philosophers as Edmund Husserl, Alexius Meinong and Nicolai Hartmann, Brentano’s ethical views have been generally ignored by British and American philosophers, a surprising fact in light of the lavish praise they received from G. E. Moore. In reviewing a short collection of Brentano’s essays on ethics, The Origin of Our Knowledge of Right and Wrong, Moore said, "This is a far better discussion of the most fundamental principles of Ethics than any others with which I am acquainted.... In almost all points in which he differs from any of the great historical systems, he is right; and he differs with regard to the most fundamental points of Moral Philosophy. It would be difficult to exaggerate the importance of this work."