Single Idea 22447

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / B. Value / 1. Nature of Value / c. Objective value]

Full Idea

When we say that something 'just is' right or wrong we want to give the impression of some kind of fact or authority standing behind our words, ...maintaining the trappings of objectivity though the substance is not there.

Gist of Idea

Saying something 'just is' right or wrong creates an illusion of fact and objectivity

Source

Philippa Foot (Morality and Art [1972], p.9)

Book Reference

Foot,Philippa: 'Moral Dilemmas' [OUP 2002], p.9


A Reaction

Foot favours the idea that such a claim must depend on reasons, and that the reasons arise out of actual living. She's right.