Full Idea
The substructure of the ethical world is a matter of deep and unending controversy, Meanwhile, however, we are living in the superstructure.
Gist of Idea
Deep ethical theory is very controversial, but we have to live with higher ethical practice
Source
Michael Walzer (Just and Unjust Wars [1977], Pref)
Book Reference
Walzer,Michael: 'Just and Unjust Wars' [Penguin 1984], p.-5
A Reaction
This may be the best approach to ethics. Nearly all applied ethics takes the common sense consensus on values for granted. Personally I think that is because the substructure is the obvious success and failure of human functioning.