1. Introduction to Moral Theory: The Nature of Evaluation of Moral Theories
Metaethics explores the connection between values, reasons for action, and human motivation. One way to address questions raised by Metaethics is Moral realism, the belief that there are moral facts in the same way there are scientific facts. Another way to address questions raised by Metaethics is Moral Antirealism. Moral Antirealism is the belief that there are no moral facts. When we make claims about moral facts, we do it in terms of Moral Absolutism and Moral Relativism. To help us through problems, we have ethical theories. Depending on the ethical theory, an act may be good or bad, right or wrong. Good and bad are value concepts, while right and wrong are deontic concepts. We should think of a deontic rule the same way we think of a deductive argument. We can think about value concepts in terms of inductive reasoning, but only somewhat. When we evaluate moral theories, we seek the Theoretical Aim of Moral Theory and the Practical Aim of Moral theory. Finally...