Meta-ethics

Meta-ethics

Study of the nature of moral values and words, including the meaning of ethical language. 

Morals derived from reason

Moral principles can be discovered through rational thought (Kant) and morality is universal. 

Morals derived from emotion

Moral principles can arise from feelings of approval (Hume). Reason alone is not enough. 

Morals derived from society

Moral principles can be shaped by societal norms and culture. This explains moral disagreements between cultures.

Cognitivism

Moral judgements are propositions that are fact-stating and truth-apt.

Non-cognitivism

Moral judgements do not express truth-apt propositions. They express attitudes or approval rather than facts.