The Origin of the Knowledge of Right and Wrong

Delivered before the Vienna Law Society in 1889, this lecture unfolds as a thoughtful investigation into the roots of our sense of right and wrong. The speaker draws on years of reflection to propose a “natural sanction” for law and morality, positioning the discussion at the crossroads of philosophy, psychology, and legal theory. Listeners are invited into a concise yet richly layered argument that moves swiftly from abstract principle to concrete historical example.

The work challenges prevailing ethical theories that privilege subjective feeling, offering a systematic, descriptive psychology that seeks universal foundations for moral judgment. By engaging with thinkers such as Herbart and Descartes, the author highlights both overlooked insights and common misconceptions, all while maintaining a spirited dialogue with contemporary scholars. The result is a compelling blend of rigorous analysis and lively debate, perfect for anyone curious about how our moral instincts might be grounded in reason rather than mere sentiment.