John Arthur (philosopher)

John Arthur (1946 – 2007) was an American philosopher specializing in ethics, social and political philosophy, and the philosophy of law. He held the Ralph and Frances Wilson Chair in Christian Ethics at Union College in Schenectady, New York.

Arthur is known for his clear and accessible writing style and his engagement with contemporary moral issues. He is the author of several books and articles, including Morality and Moral Controversies (a widely used anthology), The Unfinished Constitution, Religion and Morality, and Words That Bind: Judicial Review and the Grounds of Law.

His work often explored the intersection of religion and ethics, arguing that morality could be understood and defended without relying on religious premises. Arthur was a proponent of moral pluralism and argued that there are multiple valid moral perspectives. He defended a secular approach to ethics, maintaining that moral principles could be grounded in reason and experience rather than religious authority.

Arthur also made significant contributions to the field of legal philosophy. In Words That Bind, he examined the role of judicial review in interpreting the U.S. Constitution and argued for a pragmatic approach that balances original intent with contemporary values. He defended the idea of a "living constitution" that can adapt to changing social circumstances.

His philosophical approach was generally characterized by a commitment to clarity, rigor, and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives on complex moral and legal issues. His work continues to be influential in undergraduate and graduate courses in ethics, political philosophy, and legal theory.