Why People Reject the Subjectivity of Morality

The concept of moral subjectivity often provokes significant philosophical, psychological, and cultural conundrums, which many individuals find challenging to accept. This article delves into why people still refuse to acknowledge that morality is indeed subjective and relative.

Moral Realism vs. Subjectivity

Some subscribe to the doctrine of moral realism, which posits the existence of objective moral truths independent of human opinions. They argue that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, irrespective of individual beliefs or cultural norms. This belief system, however, often clashes with the idea of moral subjectivity, leading to substantial resistance.

Cultural and Religious Influences

Many cultures and religions provide frameworks of moral values that are perceived as absolute. Adherents may feel these values are divinely ordained or culturally essential, reinforcing their resistance to the notion of subjective morality. Cultural practices and religious teachings often overshadow personal or societal relativism, emphasizing the adherence to a universal standard of ethics.

Fear of Moral Relativism

Accepting that morality is subjective can lead to moral relativism – the belief that all moral views are equally valid. Such an acceptance might be perceived as detrimental to ethical stability, where harmful actions can be justified by personal or cultural perspectives. This fear of ethical chaos often deters individuals from embracing moral subjectivity.

Intuition and Emotion

Moral intuitions are powerful and deeply rooted, leading some to believe their perspectives reflect fundamental truths rather than subjective opinions. Emotional responses to moral dilemmas can solidify one's stance, making it difficult to consider alternative viewpoints.

Social Cohesion

Shared moral beliefs play a crucial role in fostering community and social cohesion. Denying moral subjectivity can help individuals and groups maintain a sense of identity and solidarity, making it easier to navigate social relationships.

Philosophical Arguments

Philosophical theories, such as those from Kantian ethics or natural law theory, assert that there are universal principles discernible through reason or observation of human nature. These theories support the argument for objective morality and contribute to the resistance against moral subjectivity.

Common Misconceptions

Among those resistant to moral subjectivity, a common fallacy is conflating personal values with objective morality. This confusion often arises from a lack of understanding of the differences between moral principles and societal norms, religious precepts, or individual ethics. Those who argue for subjective morality frequently make simplistic errors in reasoning and refuse to acknowledge reality that might disprove their beliefs.

In conclusion, the rejection of moral subjectivity stems from deep-seated beliefs, cultural contexts, emotional responses, and the desire for social cohesion. Understanding these factors is essential in addressing and potentially reconciling this differing perspective.