A synthesis of moral realism, relativism, and non-cognitivism

by Patrick Julius

Much ink has been spilled over the differences between moral realism (moral norms are objectively binding to us all), relativism (moral norms only hold in specific cultures), and non-cognitivism (moral norms have no real content and just express emotions or attitudes). Realism is the common-sense notion most of us have, but relativists and non-cognitivists have pointed out some potential flaws in realism.In this essay, I show how to synthesize the critiques brought forth by relativism and non-cognitivism into a more robust, nuanced realism which can answer these objections without losing the binding force of moral norms.

3 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 6, 2012