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Mackie's Theory Of Moral Skepticism

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Moral skepticism is defined as “the denial of objective moral standards—is correct, and that morality therefore lacks any real authority” (Shafer-Landau). The concept of objectivity plays a part in the theory of moral standards. Objectivity is used in the sense that a subject exists without its perception, and that one can come to the same conclusion as everyone else given the same sources/information. An object is in existence despite of any opinions or matters, which is why this principle is closely associated with being reality and truth. Philosopher Mackie has a specific opinion on the ethical theory called subjectivism or moral skepticism that discusses the falsehood of moral claims. Mackie developed the principle of subjectivism, which states that morals claims do not exist. There is nothing in this …show more content…

Relativity is used to discuss that moral codes are diverse and differ from societies. This argument starts with the view that moral opinions vary among many people. Since there is not a universal agreement on values, then values can’t be objective. He uses relativity in response to cultural relativism and states that individuals and groups don’t come to their values and reflect way of life; people practice their way of life and then come to their values. Different morals come from different ways of life instead of having different views on moral beliefs. With this being said, if objective values aren’t the reason for moral beliefs, then there is no reason to believe in ethical claims. The argument of queerness can take form being metaphysical. The metaphysical concept states that if there is such a thing of objective values, they wouldn’t be like anything else. If these values were to exist, they would be really queer and unusual. If objective values did occur, one would need a unique, moral sense, but ultimately objective values can’t exist since they can’t be

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