Meta Essay Plan

Question 1

What should the introduction include?

Answer 1

Define moral subjectivity (morality depends on individuals/cultures) vs. moral objectivity (universal moral truths).

State the thesis: While strong arguments exist for subjectivity (cultural relativism, emotivism), objective frameworks (natural law, Kantian ethics) provide compelling counterarguments.

Question 2

What are the main arguments supporting moral subjectivity?

Answer 2

Cultural Relativism (Benedict): Moral norms vary widely between cultures (e.g., honor killings vs. human rights).

Emotivism (Ayer): Moral statements express emotions, not facts (“Stealing is wrong” ≈ “Boo stealing!”).

Nietzsche’s Perspectivism: Morality reflects power relations, not universal truths.

Question 3

What are the main arguments against moral subjectivity (supporting objectivity)?

Answer 3

Natural Law (Aquinas): Morality is objective, grounded in human nature and purpose (e.g., preserving life).

Kantian Deontology: The categorical imperative requires universalizable moral maxims (e.g., lying is always wrong).

Moral Realism (Moore): “Good” is an objective but indefinable property known through intuition.

Question 4

How can you present a middle ground or nuanced perspective?

Answer 4

Rawls’ Overlapping Consensus: Different cultures can agree on core objective principles like justice despite subjective differences.

Mackie’s Error Theory: Morality seems objective but is socially constructed, highlighting the complexity of the debate.

Question 5

What points should the conclusion emphasize?

Answer 5

Subjectivity explains moral diversity but struggles to justify universal human rights.

Objective moral frameworks better resolve serious moral conflicts (e.g., condemning genocide).

Therefore, lean towards a modified objectivity that acknowledges diversity but upholds some universal principles.

Question 6

How to structure paragraphs for clarity?

Answer 6

Paragraph 1: Arguments for subjectivity (cultural relativism, emotivism, perspectivism).

Paragraph 2: Arguments against subjectivity (natural law, Kantian ethics, moral realism).

Paragraph 3: Middle ground perspectives (Rawls, Mackie).

Conclusion: Summarize, evaluate, and state your position.

Question 7

What examples can support your points?

Answer 7

Honor killings vs. human rights (cultural relativism).

Emotional expressions of disapproval (emotivism).

Preservation of life (natural law).

Lying as universally wrong (Kant).

Genocide condemnation to show objective moral necessity.