when I say objective I don’t necessarily mean bestowed on us by some external force like a God. It could also be so ething that comes from within us all.I don't think there is such a thing as objective ethics. For example, I hear some Nordic countries ban the desexing of animals, as it is considered cruel mutilation. I personally believe that animals can live even happier lives after being desexed, and you wind up with far less unwanted puppies and stray dogs and cats in society.
Ethics is like the meaning of words, or even the value of money... It is what ever society broadly agrees for it to be. Eg if an old lady is struggling to carry her shopping bags across the street, we'd nearly all agree that politely assisting her would be a kind action, whilst laughing at her misfortune and mocking her would be bad. Clear as mud?
Ethics can only be based around the belief of an objective right and wrong. to see this we need to distinguish between personal values and ethical values. Personal Behaviours/values are behaviours and values that you believe you should follow and live up to but do not believe others should follow.
an ethical system is one you believe everyone should follow. I.e values and behaviours everyone should hold and follow. Not just yourself. And you could only believe others should also follow certain behaviours/values if you believe in an objective good and wrong. If it’s not objective then why should others follow it? I.e. If it was just your own subjective determination of right and wrong then why should I follow it?
if you believe helping an old lady across the road is ethically right then you believe in most circumstances we should all do it. and there must be a reason why you believe that is an ethical action. i.e. there must be an ultimate source of good behind helping an old lady across the road. Why should we do it?
I’m asking you what believe is that objective good? why is helping an old lady something we should do? If you believe it’s subjective and not objective then why the hell should I do it to?
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