PHLB09H3 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: General Idea, Divine Command Theory, Euthyphro Dilemma
Document Summary
Arguments: the failure of the argument from cultural differences doesn"t disprove cultural relativism, just because one argument for a view is false, doesn"t disprove of the view. Some independent reason for believing a view is false can disprove a view. Arguments against cultural relativism: rachels then considers problematic implications of cultural relativism. If relativism implies absurd results, then the view should be rejected. In this case, the morality standards of the society have changed: voting rights, desegregation. These criticisms show that there is some standard for the objectivity of morality. If r is true, them implications (x, y, z) follow (x, y, z) is false: therefore, r is false. Rachel"s final point: there must be universal values, some values that are necessary for societies to exist, valuing the lives of children, the lives are valued but the life-taking are necessary for society, prohibition of murder. Is universal across all societies in order for society to exist.
