Naturalism

• What is naturalism?

  The idea that morals are fixed absolutes, so can be observed
• What did F. H. Bradley believe?


  Our duty is universal and concrete. Ethics can be observed, with a focus on our place in society
• What is Aristotelian naturalism?


  Goodness = eudaemonia (human flourishing). Eudaemonia is a natural feature of natural organisms
• What is utilitarian naturalism?


  Goodness = pleasure. Pleasure is a natural property of natural creatures
• What is Hume’s is/ought gap?


  Writers often move from ‘is’ statements (statements of fact) to ‘ought’ statements (what should be done)
• What does Hume say about morality?


  Moral judgements cannot be deduced from facts, instead they are caused by non-cognitive feelings
• Who challenges Hume?

  Phillipa Foot
• What did Phillipa Foot believe? 


  We can watch how people act and see that we have some characteristics that show good. Eg someone does honest things so their honesty can be identified through observation
• What did J. L. Mackie say about morality?


  The degree to which moral rules should be applied depends on our relationship with those affected. It depends on the institution, and we act in accordance with what will be approved of or disapproved of