Grown out of lectures to advanced history classes, this survey follows conscience from the kinship group through ancient Egypt, Babylonia, China, Japan, India, Persia, Israel, Hellas and Rome to doctrinal Christianity and the age of asceticism. Each civilisation is read through its governing ideal, whether filial piety, loyalty, combat, obedience or civic duty, with Marcus Aurelius and the Stoics given generous space.
A humane, wide-ranging introduction for readers curious about how moral ideas have changed across cultures. Download the free EPUB.