The Crippling Effect of Divine Command Theory on Moral Reasoning

Summary

In this discussion, Ozzie explores the appeal of Divine Command Theory, particularly among religious individuals, suggesting that it offers a simplified approach to moral reasoning. He argues that adherents to this theory bypass the complex, introspective process of moral deliberation by focusing solely on what they believe to be God's will. This reliance on divine commands often leads to a limited moral imagination, making it difficult for them to understand how non-religious individuals arrive at moral decisions. Ozzie emphasizes the intellectual demands of moral reasoning without divine guidance, contrasting it with the 'quick and easy' path of Divine Command Theory.

Takeaways

• 🧠 Religious believers often insist that moral reasoning presupposes a God, influenced by divine command theory.
• 📜 Divine command theory claims that morality is based solely on God's will or commands.
• 😌 A psychological appeal of divine command theory is that it simplifies moral reasoning, removing the need for deep deliberation.
• ⚖️ Non-religious moral reasoning requires careful consideration of multiple factors, including consequences and consistency with previous beliefs.
• 💭 Developing a consistent moral philosophy is an ongoing process involving reflection, reading, observation, and dialogue.
• ⏳ Moral deliberation is challenging because it often occurs under time constraints and limited information.
• 👥 Adherents of divine command theory focus primarily on determining God's will, which can lead to less consideration of real-world consequences.
• 🤔 The belief that 'the Bible says it, I believe it, that settles it' is an example of how some avoid complex moral reasoning.
• 💡 People who follow divine command theory may find it difficult to understand how non-religious individuals arrive at moral conclusions.
• 🔍 A lifetime of divine command-based moral reasoning can lead to a lack of imagination and emotional capacity in considering alternative moral systems.

Q & A

What is divine command theory?

Divine command theory is a moral philosophy that asserts that moral values and obligations are dependent on God's will. According to this theory, actions are morally good, bad, obligatory, or prohibited solely based on God's commands.

Why do some religious people insist that morality presupposes a God?

The speaker suggests that religious people may feel that morality presupposes God because divine command theory allows them to avoid the complex, introspective process of moral reasoning. By relying on God's will, they can bypass the hard work involved in moral deliberation.

What is the 'hard work' of moral reasoning referred to in the script?

The 'hard work' refers to deeply reflecting on various factors, considering the interests of those affected, being consistent with previous moral decisions, and self-examining one’s biases. This process requires ongoing deliberation, emotional and intellectual effort, and revisiting one’s beliefs.

How does divine command theory spare individuals from moral deliberation?

Divine command theory spares individuals from moral deliberation because it simplifies moral reasoning to the question: 'What does God want me to do?' This allows individuals to bypass the complexities of evaluating moral situations and instead rely on their interpretation of God's will.

What are some potential dangers of divine command theory according to the speaker?

The speaker warns that divine command theory can lead to harmful actions being justified if they are believed to be divinely commanded, such as killing an 'infidel.' Since the individual's moral reasoning is centered on obedience to God, they may ignore the consequences of their actions.

What is the significance of the slogan 'The Bible says it, I believe it, that settles it' in this context?

This slogan exemplifies the mindset of divine command theory followers who do not engage in deep moral deliberation. They believe that whatever is written in their sacred text is the ultimate truth, leaving little room for personal moral reflection or discussion.

Why does the speaker believe that divine command theory hinders moral imagination?

The speaker argues that divine command theory hinders moral imagination because it reduces moral reasoning to the interpretation of sacred texts, leaving individuals with limited intellectual and emotional tools to consider moral issues outside of a religious framework.

How does the speaker describe the process of reaching moral conclusions without divine command theory?

The speaker describes it as a lifelong project involving constant reevaluation, self-examination, and exposure to new arguments and evidence. The goal is to form moral convictions based on thoughtful reflection, not just passive acceptance of cultural norms.

What does the speaker mean by 'reflective equilibrium' in moral reasoning?

'Reflective equilibrium' refers to a state where a person's moral intuitions are consistent with their principles after careful reflection, adjustment, and revision. Achieving this balance is seen as a long-term goal of moral reasoning.

What is the speaker’s objective in discussing divine command theory?

The speaker aims to explain why many religious people feel that morality is impossible without God. This belief stems from their reliance on divine command theory, which constrains their ability to understand non-theistic approaches to moral reasoning.