The basic idea of reflective equilibrium, as a method for theory construction and decision-making in ethics, is that we should bring together a broad variety of moral and non-moral beliefs and, through a process of critical scrutiny and mutual adjustment, combine these into one coherent belief system. This book aims to explore systematically the promises and problems of reflective equilibrium. Part One discusses the various elements that may be involved in reflective equilibrium processes, such as principles, facts, considered judgements, background theories and ideals. Part Two is devoted to the role of fundamental views of life and religion. Part Three discusses methodological issues such as coherentism, warrant and the development of judgmental faculties by the moral inquirer. In Part Four, some alternative purposes for reflective equilibrium methods are suggested. The book closes with a number of case studies in bioethics. This book is dedicated to Robert Heeger, Professor of Ethics at Utrecht University on the occasion of his 60th birthday. He and his research group have been doing research on reflective equilibrium for many years. Twenty Dutch and Swedish colleagues have contributed to this book in his honour, which aims to be a systematic and coherent discussion of this theme.
