The Meaning of Good—A Dialogue   By: G. Lowes (Goldsworthy Lowes) Dickinson (1862-1932)

The Meaning of Good—A Dialogue by G. Lowes Dickinson is a profound exploration of ethical philosophy. Written as a dialogue between three characters, the book dives deep into the challenging questions surrounding the nature of good and the underlying principles that guide human behavior.

Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century England, the author presents a thought-provoking discussion between a philosopher, a clergyman, and a social reformer. Through their conversations, Dickinson skilfully presents different perspectives on morality, making it an engaging read for both scholars and general readers interested in ethics.

One of the notable strengths of this book is the author's ability to present complex ideas in a concise and accessible manner. Each character brings their unique viewpoints without overshadowing the others, resulting in a balanced and well-rounded exploration of the subject matter. Moreover, the eloquent language and logical progression of arguments allow readers to follow the dialogue effortlessly, despite the weighty subject matter.

Dickinson's emphasis on the importance of reason and rationality in moral discussions is another commendable aspect of this work. By employing logical reasoning, the characters explore various ethical dilemmas and challenge conventional beliefs, encouraging readers to critically evaluate their own moral compass. This approach adds depth and intellectual rigor to the book, making it a valuable resource for those interested in engaging with ethical philosophy on a deeper level.

However, one potential drawback of the book is the limited diversity of perspectives. Although the dialogue does touch upon social issues and the impact of societal norms on ethical judgments, the main characters remain primarily reflective of the privileged intellectual class. A more inclusive representation of diverse backgrounds and perspectives could have enriched the discourse and made the book more relatable to a wider audience.

Nevertheless, The Meaning of Good—A Dialogue is undoubtedly a significant contribution to ethical philosophy. Dickinson's nuanced exploration of morality challenges readers to grapple with their own beliefs and confront the complexities of our human nature. This thought-provoking book serves as a springboard for profound introspection and encourages readers to actively engage in conversations about the meaning of good in their own lives.

Overall, The Meaning of Good—A Dialogue by G. Lowes Dickinson is a captivating and intellectually stimulating book that tackles fundamental questions about morality. Its accessible writing style combined with its ability to foster critical thinking and self-reflection make it an essential read for anyone interested in ethics and moral philosophy.

First Page:

An attempt at Philosophic Dialogue may seem to demand a word of explanation, if not of apology. For, it may be said, the Dialogue is a literary form not only exceedingly difficult to handle, but, in its application to philosophy, discredited by a long series of failures. I am not indifferent to this warning; yet I cannot but think that I have chosen the form best suited to my purpose. For, in the first place, the problems I have undertaken to discuss have an interest not only philosophic but practical; and I was ambitious to treat them in a way which might perhaps appeal to some readers who are not professed students of philosophy... Continue reading book >>