Moral nihilism

Definition

Moral nihilism is the philosophical view that moral values and ethical principles are not inherently valid or binding, asserting that there are no objective moral truths. This perspective challenges the existence of universally accepted morals, suggesting that moral beliefs are constructed by cultural or individual preferences rather than being based on any absolute standard. It raises important questions about the nature of morality and the implications of living in a world devoid of intrinsic moral values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Moral nihilism argues that since there are no objective moral truths, concepts like good and evil are ultimately meaningless.
2. This perspective can lead to a sense of moral skepticism, where individuals question the basis for their moral judgments.
3. Moral nihilists may contend that all ethical theories are flawed because they attempt to establish moral norms that don't actually exist.
4. This viewpoint has significant implications for social and political discourse, as it can challenge the foundations of laws and societal norms.
5. Philosophers associated with moral nihilism include Friedrich Nietzsche, who explored themes of morality in relation to power and societal values.

Review Questions

• How does moral nihilism differ from ethical relativism in terms of the foundation of moral values?
  • Moral nihilism differs from ethical relativism primarily in its rejection of any form of inherent moral truth. While ethical relativism holds that moral values can vary between cultures or individuals but are still valid within those contexts, moral nihilism denies the existence of any moral framework altogether. This means that for moral nihilists, not only do cultural perspectives lack objective grounding, but they argue that morality itself is a construct without real significance.
• Discuss how existentialist themes resonate with the principles of moral nihilism and what implications this might have for individual choices.
  • Existentialist themes resonate with moral nihilism as both philosophies grapple with the absence of inherent meaning in life. In a framework where moral truths do not exist, individuals face the burden of creating their own values and meanings. This freedom can be both liberating and daunting; individuals must navigate their choices without predefined moral guides, leading to a profound exploration of personal responsibility and authenticity in shaping one's life narrative.
• Evaluate the consequences of adopting a moral nihilistic perspective on societal norms and legal systems.
  • Adopting a moral nihilistic perspective can fundamentally challenge societal norms and legal systems, as it undermines the justification for laws based on universally accepted morals. If moral truths do not exist, then the rationale for upholding laws rooted in moral principles becomes questionable. This can lead to a form of ethical paralysis in society, where the legitimacy of legal structures is called into doubt, potentially fostering chaos or encouraging the re-evaluation of laws to reflect subjective preferences rather than purported objective standards.

Related terms

Ethical Relativism: The belief that morality is subjective and that what is considered morally right or wrong varies between cultures or individuals.

Existentialism:

A philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, often confronting themes of meaninglessness.

Moral Realism: The position that there are objective moral facts that exist independently of human beliefs or attitudes.