Exploring Mormon Thought 027-The Relation of Moral Obligation and God in LDS Thought (Pt 1) - Ch 3
Oct 16, 2017
Explore the intriguing intersection of moral obligation and God, as Francis Beckwith's arguments are put under scrutiny. Delve into the complexities of meta-ethics in Mormon theology and how it contrasts with traditional views. The discussion unpacks the Euthyphro dilemma, questioning the relationship between God and moral truths. A fresh look at divine command theory reveals the nuances of moral freedom in the context of a morally perfect God. Plus, the importance of cultivating respectful dialogue in philosophical engagements is emphasized.
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Meta-Ethics and Moral Obligation
- Meta-ethics explores the basis for believing in objective moral obligations rather than the content of specific morals.
- Traditional Christianity ties moral obligation directly to God's nature, whereas LDS views are challenged to explain this grounding.
Beckwith's Critique of LDS Moral Grounding
- Beckwith argues Mormonism's God can't ground moral law as God became God by following external moral laws.
- Beckwith modifies divine command theory by grounding goodness in God's nature rather than commands, but this raises arbitrariness issues.
Five Criteria for Moral Laws
- Beckwith proposes five conditions any moral law must meet to be adequate.
- He critiques LDS adoption of Platonism, social contract, and Aristotelian ethics as insufficient to ground moral obligation.