Error Theory

Definition

Error theory is the philosophical position that asserts all moral statements are false because they presuppose the existence of objective moral values, which do not exist. This theory challenges the idea that moral beliefs can be true or provide knowledge, suggesting instead that all moral discourse is fundamentally flawed due to its basis in non-existent moral facts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Error theory was popularized by philosopher J.L. Mackie, who argued against the objectivity of morals in his book 'Ethics: Inventing Right and Wrong'.
2. According to error theory, while people may hold moral beliefs, these beliefs are based on a misunderstanding of the nature of morality as they assume the existence of moral truths.
3. Error theorists often contend that our strong emotional responses to moral issues are part of what leads to the illusion of objective morals.
4. This theory has implications for how we understand moral discourse; it suggests that discussions about right and wrong are ultimately misguided.
5. Critics of error theory argue that it fails to account for the pervasive nature of moral language and the apparent consensus on some moral issues across cultures.

Review Questions

• How does error theory challenge the idea of moral knowledge?
  • Error theory challenges the idea of moral knowledge by asserting that all moral statements are false due to the non-existence of objective moral values. This means that even if individuals believe they know what is right or wrong, their beliefs are based on a false premise. Consequently, error theory suggests that discussions about morality are essentially futile, as they rely on the assumption that there are truths in ethics when, according to this view, there are none.
• In what ways does error theory relate to the concepts of moral realism and anti-realism?
  • Error theory directly opposes moral realism, which posits that there are objective moral truths. While moral realism claims that some moral statements can be true based on these objective values, error theory argues that all such claims are false. On the other hand, error theory can be seen as a form of moral anti-realism, as it denies the existence of any objective morals. Thus, both error theory and anti-realism reject the notion that we can have genuine moral knowledge or truth.
• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of error theory in explaining human moral behavior and discourse.
  • Error theory presents a compelling critique of the assumption that there are objective morals, highlighting how our emotional responses can mislead us into thinking such values exist. Its strength lies in its ability to challenge entrenched beliefs about morality. However, a significant weakness is its potential inability to explain why people universally engage in moral discourse and show concern for ethical issues. Critics argue that this approach overlooks the social and psychological factors driving our moral behaviors, suggesting a disconnect between theoretical perspectives and lived experiences.

Related terms

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

Moral Anti-Realism: The position that denies the existence of objective moral truths, often arguing that moral claims are not universally valid.

Cognitivism:

The view that moral statements express beliefs that can be true or false, thus allowing for moral knowledge.