Single Idea 5923

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

Full Idea

I conclude that the arguments in favour of thinking of value as an objective are no more successful than those in favour of treating it as a relation, ..and the natural view that value is a quality therefore holds its ground.

Gist of Idea

The arguments for value being an objective or a relation fail, so it appears to be a quality

Source

W. David Ross (The Right and the Good [1930], §IV)

Book Reference

Ross,W.David: 'The Right and the Good' [OUP 1930], p.114


A Reaction

See Ross's text for the arguments. It seems unlikely that argument could fully demonstrate his claim. Even physical qualities (such as weight or velocity) can have a relational component, and many things can only have value in a cultural context.