On Moral Fictionalism vs. Moral Abolitionism/ A Problem for Error Theorists

Prolegomena Overview

• Title: Moral Fictionalism vs Moral Abolitionism: Why it Makes No Sense to Continue Talking About Objective Morality If We No Longer Believe It Exists

• Author: Claire Herbert

• Publication: Prolegomena 23 (1) 2024: 43-64

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.26362/20240103

• Received: 11/1/2024

• Accepted: 15/3/2024

Abstract

• Main Argument: The paper explores the dilemma faced by moral error theorists after rejecting the existence of objective morality. This dilemma, termed "The Now What Problem", looks into two possible resolutions: moral fictionalism and moral abolitionism.

• Fictionalism Unpersuasive: The argument posits that motivation from morality requires belief in its existence, questioning the redundancy of continuing to act as if objective morality exists.

• Abolitionism: Suggests that cessation of objective morality will not impede ethical behavior; actions in a society devoid of objective morality may remain similar to current moral practices.

• Conclusion: A society without objective moral talk might be indistinguishable from our own.

Introduction to Moral Error Theory

• Definition: Moral error theory holds that all moral judgments are erroneous due to the non-existence of objective moral values (rightness and wrongness).

• Cognitivism Contrast: Mackie’s perspective (1977) asserts that moral sentences have truth values based on belief states, but asserts that the property of moral wrongness itself does not exist.

• Cultural Variation: Mackie argues that the variation of moral norms across cultures undermines the claim of objective moral facts.

The ‘Now What’ Problem

• Dilemma for Error Theorists: Error theorists are left questioning what to do with moral judgments after concluding they are false, leading to the two main solutions:

1. Moral Fictionalism: Advocates for pretending morality exists due to its societal benefits.

2. Moral Abolitionism: Proposes elimination of moral language and judgments once disbelief in morality is established.

Moral Fictionalism

• Definition: Acknowledges the non-existence of objective morality, yet maintains it as a beneficial fiction.

• Arguments for Maintaining Fiction: Suggests that fictional moral language aids in societal coordination and regulates interpersonal conflicts.

• Motivation Issue: The core argument is that true motivation from moral judgments comes from genuine belief in their truth; pretending may not be sufficient in overcoming moral temptations.

• Example of Motivation: A scenario with a person (Simon) faced with temptation illustrates that motivation to act morally hinges on genuinely believing morality exists.

Critique of Fictionalism

• Motivational Challenges: If a moral stance is recognized as fiction, it fails to motivate effectively against selfish temptations.

• Comparison with Fictional Characters: Uses analogies such as parental methods with children (Santa Claus) to illustrate the need for belief in moral constructs for them to remain effective.

• Joyce's Counterarguments: Although proponents argue alternative motivations exist, the value of make-believe morality diminishes without genuine belief.

Moral Abolitionism

• Concept: Advocates for eliminating moral judgments from discourse without the presumption of harmful implications.

• Response to Objectors: Reassures that a mild form of abolitionism does not lead to a chaotic society; human behavior may not drastically change without objective moral language.

• Motivation from Interest: Argues individuals can still act altruistically based on self-interest or empathetic considerations without moral framework.

• Self-Interest Argument: Highlights reciprocal altruism and societal benefits in maintaining cooperative behaviors without moral obligations.

Conclusion

• Impact of Abolitionism: Asserts that the removal of objective morality will not drastically change human behavior; non-moral motivations will continue to govern behavior.

• Final Thoughts: While fictionalism fails due to its dependency on belief in objective morality, mild abolitionism offers physical action without the moral overlay, maintaining core human values without necessitating moral language.