Error Theory

Definition

Error theory is the philosophical position that claims moral statements are systematically false because they assert the existence of objective moral values that do not exist. This theory challenges the foundations of moral realism by suggesting that when people make moral claims, they are fundamentally mistaken about the nature of morality. Error theory relates to various perspectives on morality, including those that debate whether moral truths are universal and objective or subjective and skeptical in nature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Error theory argues that all moral statements are false because there are no objective moral values to support them.
2. This theory is a significant critique of moral realism, which posits the existence of universal moral truths.
3. Error theorists believe that while people may express moral beliefs, those beliefs do not correspond to any real, objective moral facts.
4. In the context of universalism, error theory questions whether it is possible to have universally applicable moral truths when none exist.
5. Error theory aligns closely with moral skepticism, suggesting that we should be doubtful of our capacity to know any objective moral truths.

Review Questions

• How does error theory challenge the principles of moral realism?
  • Error theory challenges moral realism by asserting that all moral statements are fundamentally false due to the non-existence of objective moral values. While moral realism holds that there are universal truths independent of human perspectives, error theory undermines this claim by insisting that our moral assertions do not reflect any real features of the world. Thus, error theory provides a critical perspective on the validity of moral realism's foundational assumptions.
• What implications does error theory have for the debate on universal moral truths?
  • Error theory suggests that if there are no objective moral values, then claims to universal moral truths are misguided. By asserting that all moral statements are erroneous, it implies that attempts to establish a single set of universally valid morals are ultimately futile. This stance raises significant questions about how we justify moral beliefs and whether there can be any universally applicable ethical standards if they do not correspond to any actual truths.
• Evaluate how error theory relates to both subjectivism and skepticism in contemporary ethical discussions.
  • Error theory intersects with subjectivism and skepticism by emphasizing doubts about the existence of objective morals. It supports subjectivism's view that moral judgments are dependent on personal or cultural beliefs while rejecting the notion that such beliefs can yield true moral knowledge. Furthermore, error theory embodies a skeptical approach by questioning our ability to access or know any true moral facts, thus contributing to ongoing debates about the nature and validity of ethical reasoning in contemporary philosophy.

Related terms

Moral Realism: The belief that there are objective moral facts and values that exist independently of human beliefs or attitudes.

Moral Anti-Realism: The view that denies the existence of objective moral facts, asserting instead that moral claims are contingent upon human perspectives or cultural norms.

Moral Subjectivism: The philosophical standpoint that posits moral judgments are based on individual or cultural opinions rather than universal truths.