Exploring Absolute Moral Rules and Ethics

Sep 30, 2024

Lecture Notes on Chapter 9 of "The Elements of Moral Philosophy" by James and Stuart Rachels

Introduction

  • Topic: Exploration of absolute moral rules.
  • Question: Are there universal rules that must be followed to be moral?
  • Definition: Absolute moral rules are universal and apply in all circumstances.

Case Study: Harry S. Truman

  • Context: Truman, the 33rd President of the USA, authorized the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.
  • Dilemma: The decision involved ethical concerns about killing non-combatants to potentially end the war sooner.
  • Philosopher Input: Elizabeth Anscombe criticized Truman, labeling him a murderer for intentionally killing innocents.

Immanuel Kant's Philosophy

  • Belief: Moral rules are absolute.
  • Hypothetical vs. Categorical Imperatives:
    • Hypothetical Imperatives: Actions based on desires ("if" statements).
    • Categorical Imperatives: Actions based on moral obligations ("ought" statements).
  • Categorical Imperative Principle: Actions must be universalizable to be morally permissible.
  • Example: Lying to obtain a loan cannot be a universal law as it is self-defeating.
  • Exceptionless Rule: Lying is always wrong; it destroys human dignity.

Criticism of Kant

  • Argument Flaws: Not all lies are self-defeating; some might be justifiable (e.g., lying to save a life).
  • Consequences: We can't predict the consequences of lying vs. telling the truth.

Conflicts Between Moral Rules

  • Scenario: A pandemic situation where moral rules conflict (e.g., leaving a child alone vs. breaking travel rules).
  • Peter Geach's View: Conflicts don't occur because a rational God wouldn’t allow impossible situations.
  • Historical Example: Dutch fishermen lying to Nazis to save Jewish refugees.
    • Moral Dilemma: Conflict between lying and facilitating murder.
  • Conclusion: Absolute moral rules may be incoherent in conflicts.

Kant's Insights

  • Rational Agents: Categorical imperatives are binding because humans are rational.
  • Consistency in Morality: Reasons for actions should apply universally and consistently.
  • Dutch Fishermen Example: Consensus on lying to protect lives underscores universal moral reasoning.
  • Alternative Options for Truman: Could have demonstrated power without casualties or accepted earlier surrender.

Conclusion

  • Universal Morality: Moral reasons are binding on all people at all times.
  • Moral Responsibility: Individuals should act with universalizable reasons.

Note: The lecture delves into moral philosophy, particularly Kantian ethics, and evaluates historical examples to understand absolute moral rules and their practical implications.