Moral Truths Flashcards
While it is wrong to talk about moral truths, truth has a vital role in morality. Moral judgments only carry weight when they accord with the facts (truth) both of human nature and the world. It is only if we get facts right that we can see which moral judgment is preferable.
When it comes to values and morality, relativism has many devotees. Partly this is a fruit of respect for diversity, often exacerbated by colonial guilt.
Morality is just the wrong kind of thing to be subjected to empirical evidence.
David Hume - morality is not rooted in rational argument or empirical demonstration, but in fellow-feeling (empathy). The psychopath lacks not rationality but feeling (empathy).
Prejudice arises because we reach a conclusion in advance of seeing the relevant facts. When we judge after having seen the truth, prejudice is replaced with fair judgement. So while it is wrong to speak of moral truths, truth has a vital role to play in morality.
