Review Class

Metaethics and Two Theories

Review of Kantian ethics: Rule judgement vs end and means judgement

Example of Okam’s Razor:

• P=phenomenon, what are the possible explanations for P? (E1, E2, E3) → survey these explanations and choose the ones that explain it well. After surveying them you notice that one is simpler than all the others. Okam’s Razor tells you that you should go with the simplest explanation. Don’t over complicate things unnecessarily.

• Consciousness is not a physical thing, the simplest explanation for consciousness is that the brain produces it, another explanation might say that consciousness is the brain and the soul.

• Nhilism → we don’t need those concepts, often employ Okam’s Razor.

• Moral objectivists → we need those extra concepts to evaluate moral nature.

• Used in every area of philosophy

Rule utilitarianism → consequentialists, rules are good to have because of their effects. Contemplate rules instead of actions and develop those rules based on which ones produce the best outcomes.

• Arugments against rule utilitarianism: Adopting judged rules abandons the core notion of utilitarianism which is that you should always be producing the best outcome. Following rules allows for exceptions which violate that core principle.

Error theory → moral judgements are errors.