pt 1 - subjectivism, culture relativism, and moral nihilism

What are two metaethical theories discussed in class?

Subjectivism and cultural relativism.

What does subjectivism claim about moral standards?

Moral standards are within the individual.

How does cultural relativism define moral standards?

Moral standards are set by societal values.

Can individuals disagree under subjectivism?

No, individuals cannot disagree on moral claims.

Can one society claim another’s moral code is wrong under cultural relativism?

No, one society cannot claim that.

What subjectivism and cultural relativism deny?

They deny universal and objective truth.

What does moral nihilism propose about moral facts?

There are no moral facts or truths.

How does Harman argue moral truths differ from scientific principles?

Moral truths cannot be verified like scientific facts.

What does Harman say about observing morality?

We cannot ‘see’ morality in the world.

What does Harman suggest about the inherent rightness or wrongness of actions?

It does not explain why we make observations.

Why does Harman question the reality of moral facts?

They cannot be verified like scientific facts.