NML

• What is NML

  An alternative to DCT, retains theonomous link

  • Provides a solution to Euphyro's dilemma
  • States that God ordains humans with right reason to lead a moral life
  • Therefore, Morality can be discovered independently of God's commands so they're not abitrary, it is also universal
  • We use our right reason to understand the purpose of all things, which leads us to act morally (e.g purpose of sex = reproduction), our telos = human flourishing
• Strengths of NML: think autonomy

  • Humans are viewed as more autonomous moral agents
  • No longer 'Slavish conformants' to a 'capricious tyrant' - Mackie
  • Athiests + Religious followers can co-exist
• Weaknesses of NML: Think common nature + Nielsen

  • Relies on the understanding of a common human nature (e.g synderisis), evident that not all individuals possess this
  • Neilson: Human nature is subjective and a cultural phenomena, we do not all possess this desire, therefore = we do not all have right reason
• Weakness of NML: Think final telos

  • Whilst it attempts to be accessible to all, e.g athiests and religious believers, this ultimately fails at it's final telos is believed to be God