H. B. Acton

Harold Burrows Acton (2 June 1908 – 16 June 1974) was an English academic in the field of political philosophy, known for books defending the morality of capitalism, and attacking Marxism-Leninism. He in particular produced arguments on the incoherence of Marxism, which he described as a 'farrago' (in philosophical terms). His book The Illusion of the Epoch, in which this appears, is a standard point of reference. Other interests were the Marquis de Condorcet, Hegel, John Stuart Mill, Herbert Spencer, F. H. Bradley, Bernard Bosanquet and Sidney Webb. Acton also endorsed a version of negative utilitarianism, according to which the reduction of suffering has unique moral importance.

'Harry' Acton held teaching positions at University College, Swansea, Bedford College and the University of Edinburgh where he occupied the Chair of Moral Philosophy.

He is buried in Grange Cemetery in Edinburgh close to the main entrance.

Works The Illusion of the Epoch: Marxism-Leninism as a Philosophical Creed (1955) The Philosophy of Language in Revolutionary France (1959) Dawes Hicks Lecture of the British Academy What Marx Really Said (1967) Philosophy of Punishment (1969) editor Kant's moral philosophy (1970) The Morals of Markets: an Ethical Exploration (1971) essays edited by David Gordon and Jeremy Shearmur. 2nd edition (1993), Liberty Fund, The Right to Work and the Right to Strike (1972) The ethics of capitalism (The Company and its Responsibilities) (1972) The idea of a spiritual power: 1973 Auguste Comte memorial trust lecture (1974)