Presentation

The SOCIETAS ETHICA, the European Society for Research in Ethics, was founded in 1964 on the initiative of the theologian Hendrik von Oyen at Basle (Switzerland). Under those who took part in the early years were well-known theologians as Franz Böckle, Arthur Rich, Dietrich Ritschl, Niels Hansen Søe and Gustav Wingren. Today the SOCIETAS ETHICA has more than 270 members from approximately 20 countries, including both moral theologians and moral philosophers. While in the beginning the character of the society was shaped by the dialogue between catholic and protestant moral theologians, nowadays moral philosophy is equally significant.

The SOCIETAS ETHICA sees itself as a platform for the exchange of scholarly work, ideas and experiences stemming from different philosophical and theological traditions. It endeavours to stimulate contacts between scholars in different countries, surpassing political, ideological and religious curtains. Both research in the analytical tradition and research in the traditions of continental philosophy have its esteemed place within the society.

The SOCIETAS ETHICA is bilingual: English and German are the offical languages for conferences and publications. French is welcome, but is not understood by such a wide public.

Each year the SOCIETAS ETHICA organises a conference (usually at the end of August). Members and non-members are invited to give a lecture or prepare a paper on the theme of the year. The theme of the year reflects on a current subject of interest and debate in either applied ethics or fundamental ethics. Visitors are welcome to participate at the meetings of the society.