William Frankena

William K Frankena 1949 photo

William Klaas Frankena (1908–1994) was a prominent American philosopher who made significant contributions to ethics and moral philosophy. He was a key figure in mid-20th-century ethical theory, known for his work on the nature of moral judgment, value theory, and the principles of moral education.

Early Life and Education

William Frankena was born on June 21, 1908, in Manhattan, Montana. He pursued his undergraduate studies at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he developed an interest in philosophy. Frankena went on to earn his Ph.D. in philosophy from the University of Michigan in 1937, where he wrote a dissertation under the supervision of the renowned philosopher C.I. Lewis.

Academic Career

After completing his doctorate, Frankena began his academic career at the University of Michigan, where he would remain for the entirety of his professional life. He quickly established himself as a respected teacher and scholar. Frankena served as the chair of the Department of Philosophy from 1947 to 1961, during which time he played a pivotal role in developing the department's reputation for excellence in ethical theory and the history of philosophy.

Philosophical Work

Frankena's philosophical work is characterized by its clarity, rigor, and deep commitment to the analytical tradition. He was particularly interested in the analysis of ethical concepts, the nature of moral reasons, and the foundations of moral obligation. His most influential work, Ethics (1963), is a comprehensive examination of moral philosophy, covering topics such as the definition of good, the nature of ethical judgments, and the principles of justice and responsibility. In this book, Frankena critically engages with the works of other philosophers, including Aristotle, Immanuel Kant, and John Stuart Mill, while also presenting his own views on the structure of ethical reasoning.

Frankena was also known for his critique of emotivism, a popular ethical theory of his time that suggested moral statements do not express propositions but emotional attitudes. He argued for a more cognitivist approach, maintaining that moral statements are capable of being true or false.

Legacy

William Frankena's impact on moral philosophy and ethics is enduring. His work continues to be a subject of study and discussion among philosophers, particularly those interested in the analytical tradition and the foundations of moral theory. Frankena's commitment to clear, rigorous thinking and his ability to engage constructively with differing viewpoints have made his writings a staple in the field of ethics.

Frankena passed away on October 22, 1994, but his legacy lives on through his influential writings and the generations of students he taught.

Selected Works

• Ethics (1963)
• Perspectives on Morality: Essays by William K. Frankena (1976)

See Also

• Ethics
• Moral philosophy
• Analytical philosophy
• C.I. Lewis