The Philosophy of G.E. Moore – A Landmark in Analytic Philosophy | The Library of Living Philosophers | Volume IV, 1942, 1971 | Review, Analysis & Summary

The Philosophy of G. E. Moore, edited by Paul Arthur Schilpp and released in 1942, constitutes Volume IV of the esteemed Library of Living Philosophers (LLP) series. This publication delivers an in-depth and complex examination of George Edward Moore’s philosophical legacy, especially his significant influence on analytic philosophy, ethics, and epistemology.
With a rich assemblage of Moore’s autobiographical writings, fundamental texts, critical essays from prominent contemporaries, and Moore’s comprehensive responses, the work captures the LLP series' distinctive objective: fostering an ongoing dialogue between philosophers and their critics while they remain available to engage.

Who Was G. E. Moore?

G. E. Moore (1873–1958) was a distinguished British philosopher recognized for his stringent approach to philosophical inquiry and his advocacy for common sense realism. Together with Bertrand Russell, he played a pivotal role in the establishment of 20th-century analytic philosophy. Noteworthy works that cement his influence include:

• Principia Ethica (1903)
• The Refutation of Idealism (1903)
• A Defence of Common Sense (1925)
• Proof of an External World (1939)

Moore’s emphasis on clarity, logical rigor, and linguistic analysis established a benchmark for future generations of analytic philosophers.

Overview of the Book

This volume encompasses:

• An autobiographical essay by Moore, offering an intimate glimpse into his life, formative influences, and intellectual journey.
• A carefully selected array of his significant philosophical writings covering ethics, epistemology, metaphysics, and language.
• More than 25 critical and interpretive essays by notable philosophers of the time.
• Moore’s extensive rebuttals, addressing critiques, elucidating his positions, and defending his foundational philosophical beliefs.

The book serves as a philosophical forum, positioning Moore’s contributions at the heart of thoughtful and respectful discourse.

Key Themes in Moore’s Philosophy

1. Ethics and the Naturalistic Fallacy

In Principia Ethica, Moore contended that “good” is an inherent property that cannot be explicated through natural attributes (such as pleasure). His well-known concept of the naturalistic fallacy persists as a cornerstone in modern moral philosophy.

2. Common Sense and Realism

Moore’s defense of common-sense assertions—like “the external world exists” and “other people have minds”—served as a counterargument to skepticism and idealism. His essay A Defence of Common Sense emerged as a pivotal work in epistemology.

3. The Open Question Argument

Moore’s open question argument contested efforts to articulate moral terminology through factual or scientific characteristics. This argument continues to shape meta-ethical discussions.

4. Epistemology and Proof

In Proof of an External World, Moore famously raised his hands and stated, “Here is one hand, and here is another,” using this ordinary-language approach as a challenge to realism. His strategy of verification through straightforward, observable realities has been extensively debated and scrutinized.

Contributors to the Volume

This volume contains essays by influential philosophers who examined Moore’s work from various perspectives, including:

• Bertrand Russell – Moore’s long-standing associate and collaborator
• C. D. Broad – discussing Moore’s ethical framework
• R. M. Hare, A. J. Ayer, and Paul Weiss – presenting critiques and analyses from ethical, logical, and metaphysical viewpoints.
• Ludwig Wittgenstein, although not directly involved, is often cited due to his similar and differing perspectives on language and meaning.

These essays contest Moore’s views while acknowledging his significant impact on the evolution of contemporary analytical philosophy.

Moore’s Responses – A Philosophical Mastery

In keeping with LLP's tradition, Moore’s answers constitute the volume's intellectual core. His replies are courteous, precise, and enlightening. Moore seldom relies on rhetorical flourish; he meticulously analyzes each criticism and clarifies his points of agreement or disagreement, rendering this section exemplary in philosophical discourse and transparency.

Significance and Impact of the Volume

The Philosophy of G. E. Moore is essential for:

• Students and academics in ethics, epistemology, and analytic philosophy
• Those exploring the roots of British analytic thought
• Readers who want to understand how one of the most articulate thinkers of the 20th century tackled fundamental philosophical dilemmas

Moore’s unwavering clarity, his prioritization of everyday language, and his emphasis on practical common sense continue to influence philosophical exploration.