Lecture Notes on the Euthyphro Dilemma

Introduction

• Euthyphro Dilemma: A philosophical question regarding the relationship between morality, goodness, and divine preferences.
  • Are good things good because gods prefer them?
  • Or do gods prefer them because they are good?
• Originates from Plato's "Euthyphro" dialogue but only explores one side of the dilemma.
• The issue has been extensively discussed in philosophical history.

Core Concepts

• Correlation vs. Causation: Understanding correlation between divine preferences and goodness does not explain causation.
  • Analogy with thermometer: Perfect correlation with temperature but does not decide temperature.
  • Differentiates between correct perception and mistaken view of reality.

Theories Discussed

Divine Independence Theory

• Explanation: Gods prefer kindness because it is already good.
  • Sets goodness as independent of divine preferences.
  • Plato's belief: God recognizes pre-existing facts about good and bad.

Divine Command Theory

• Explanation: Kindness is good because gods prefer it.
  • Divine preferences determine morality.
  • Prior to divine choice, nothing is inherently good or bad.

Avoiding Circularity

• Key Point: If one fact explains another, it cannot be circular.
  • Divine Independence: God's preference is based on pre-existing goodness.
  • Divine Command: God's preferences make things good.

Arbitrariness Problem

• Divine Command Theory: Raises issues of arbitrariness.
  • Without reasoning, divine preferences appear arbitrary.
  • Necessary condition for preference: Recognition of goodness (premise).

Critiques and Defenses

• Critique of Arbitrariness: Divine Command Theory does not provide reasons for preferences.
  • Example from Chess: Understanding expertise and reasoning.
• Leibniz’s Argument: Critiques divine command theory for making God’s actions arbitrary, diminishing reasons for praise.

Conclusion

• Euthyphro Dilemma Summary:
  • Either goodness is independent of divine preferences.
  • Or divine preferences are arbitrary.
• Implications: Forces a choice between independent moral facts or arbitrary divine choices.

Additional Considerations

• Relevance of God's Omniscience: Criticism of divine command theory often involves assumptions about human understanding of divine reasoning.
• Philosophical Significance: Highlights the complexity of divine influence on morality and the need for coherent moral reasoning.