Originally published in 1988, this book discusses if moral knowledge exists, and if so, if it is similar to other forms of knowledge. This book approaches the issues from both historical and contemporary perspectives and looks to the ethical theories of Hobbes, Hume and Kant. '?a profound application of the view that ideas, whether scientific or moral, develop out of the historical context and social relations of their creation and use?. The book ought to be on the shelf of everyone interested in the next steps in our collective research in ethics, epistemology and social policy.' Ann Ferguson, University of Massachusetts, Amherst 'By incorporating the insights of contemporary sociological theory into philosophical and feminist ethics, Kathryn Addelson contributes powerfully to current critiques of individualism and professional authority.' Laurie Shrage, Cal Poly Pomona