Lecture on Moral Arguments by Dr. Stansel

Introduction to Moral Arguments

• Definition: A moral argument includes:
  • At least one premise (usually more)
  • A conclusion
• Characteristics:
  • Conclusion makes a moral claim
  • Premises support the conclusion
  • At least one premise must make a moral claim

Examples of Moral Arguments

Example 1: Moral Wrongness of Eating Meat

• Conclusion: It is morally wrong to eat meat.
• Premise 2: It is morally required to reduce suffering when possible.
• Notes:
  • Both conclusion and premise make moral claims.

Example 2: Moral Requirement to Eat Meat in Some Locations

• Conclusion: In some places, it is morally required to eat meat.
• Premise 1: Something is morally good if it preserves the natural environment.
• Notes:
  • Conclusion and premise include moral claims.

Example 3: Moral Requirement for Free Busing by School Systems

• Conclusion: School systems must provide free busing.
  • Context and the term "must" indicate a moral claim.
• Premise 1: Everyone has a right to education.
  • "Right" is a moral concept indicating a moral claim.

Identifying Moral Arguments

• Indicators:
  • Use of terms like "moral," "morally," and "right"
  • Contextual clues and judgment when explicit words are absent
• Real-Life Application:
  • In readings, authors may not clearly state conclusions using "moral" terms.
  • Good judgment is required to determine if an argument is moral.

Conclusion

• Moral arguments rely on context and language to convey moral claims.
• Evaluating the context and language used can help identify moral arguments.