Synthesized answer
The central thesis of "The Sources of Normativity" is that ethical concepts are normative and make claims on us [Passage 2]. The book explores the origins of the authority of these ethical concepts and our authority over one another [Passage 2].
Christine M. Korsgaard identifies and compares four accounts of the source of normativity advocated by modern moral philosophers: voluntarism, realism, reflective endorsement, and the appeal to autonomy [Passage 2]. She traces the historical development of these accounts, showing how each evolved in response to the preceding one and comparing their early and contemporary versions [Passage 2]. Korsgaard's own version of the Kantian account, where normativity stems from our autonomy, is presented as a synthesis of the other three [Passage 1, Passage 2].
Synthesized from the book passages below. Chat with the book on Feynman for follow-up.
From the book
rom our own autonomy emerges as a synthesis of the other three, and Korsgaard concludes with her own version of the Kantian account. Her discussion is followed by commentary from G. A. Cohen, Raymond Geuss, Thomas Nagel, and Bernard Williams, and a reply by Korsgaard. Categories: Philosophy Pages: 294 Snippet: Her discussion is followed by commentary from G. A. Cohen, Raymond Geuss, Thomas Nagel, and Bernard Williams, and a reply by Korsgaard.
Title: The sources of normativity by Christine M. Korsgaard Description: Ethical concepts are, or purport to be, normative. But where does their authority over us come from? Korsgaard identifies 4 accounts of the source of normativity, traces their history and compares their early and contemporary versions. --- Google Books --- Title: The Sources of Normativity by Christine M. Korsgaard Description: Ethical concepts are, or purport to be, normative. They make claims on us: they command, oblige, recommend, or guide. Or at least when we invoke them, we make claims on one another; but where…