Philosopher Sebo argues for an expansion of moral thinking to include animals, insects, plants, microbes, and even artificial intelligence... A thoughtful unsettling of moral certainty.-- "Kirkus Reviews"

The Moral Circle is a thoroughly digestible and wonderfully approachable example of popular philosophy at its very best, as curious as it is careful.-- "Science Magazine"

In The Moral Circle, Jeff Sebo defends, with engaging examples and plausible arguments, a disturbing conclusion: that the expansion of the moral circle beyond our own species, for which I have argued, does not go nearly far enough. I expect this book to trigger an important debate.--Peter Singer, author of Animal Liberation and Animal Liberation Now

Does what happen to an insect, a plant, or a robot, matter to them? Compelling thought experiments make The Moral Circle a fascinating read. Jeff Sebo's conclusion that we owe a lot to a vast number and wide range of beings will surely expand readers' empathy and compassion.--Barbara J. King, author of Animals' Best Friends and How Animals Grieve

As Al grows ever more complex... Sebo's guidance will become all the more valuable.--Bryan Walsh "Vox, Future Perfect 50"

In The Moral Circle Jeff Sebo shows us how complicated--and disconcerting--things get when we consider what that moral circle would include--and whether we can really justify leaving any living thing outside the boundaries of our moral concern. Elephants, pretty easy. Bugs? Plants? Plankton? You will disagree with parts of this book, but your own disagreement will leave you feeling uncomfortable, because the moral arguments are indeed strong; they challenge the self-interests that have shaped the ways we have treated--and mistreated--other beings.--Carl Safina, author of Beyond Words and Alfie and Me

[A] workout for your brain, in the best sense: Sebo writes with great clarity, so you can follow the knottiest problems.--Michael Marshall "New Scientist"

Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company

Pub date: 2025-01-28

Length: 192 pages