Cicero's De Finibus

This book opens up Cicero's work philosophically, taking us deeper into ancient ethical debates and into Cicero's own sceptical stance.

Cicero's abilities as a philosopher and his use of the dialogue form are now much better appreciated. This is the first substantial philosophical reassessment of the De Finibus, the most theoretical of his ethical dialogues and the best source for the ethical theories of the Epicureans, Stoics and Antiocheans.Cicero is increasingly recognised as a highly intelligent contributor to the ongoing ethical debates between Epicureans, Stoics and other schools. In this work on the fundamentals of ethics his learning as a scholar, his skill as a lawyer and his own passion for the truth result in a work which dazzles us in its presentation of the debates and at the same time exhibits the detachment of the ancient sceptic. Many kinds of reader will find themselves engaged with Cicero as well as with the ethical theories he presents. This collection takes the reader further into the debates, opening up new avenues for exploring this fascinating work.