Moral Relativism, Skepticism, and Socratic Ethics

Moral Relativism

Moral relativism posits that ethical principles are not universal. What is considered right or good is determined within each particular group and applies only to that group. Moral choices are incomparable across different groups due to varying traditions. Concepts of fair, unfair, good, and bad are always group-dependent, making it impossible to establish universally valid principles.

Relativistic Skepticism

Relativistic skepticism asserts that the lack of a universal criterion for choosing between options makes it impossible to distinguish between right and wrong, just and unjust. Despite this, decisions must be made, and rational justifications may be sought.

Socratic Intellectualism

Socratic intellectualism, an ethical theory, states that intentionally doing injustice is impossible. It suggests that those who know virtue will act virtuously, and those who do evil do so out of ignorance.

Socrates' Approach

Socrates shared similar concerns but differed from the Sophists. He was not interested in cosmological issues and did not charge for his teachings, emphasizing his commitment to free education. He did not claim to possess wisdom but rather sought it, along with truth and the logos of things. He adopted the themes "Know Thyself" and "Nothing in Excess" to explore the nature of justice, happiness, and virtue.

Socratic Method

Socrates believed that dialogue is the path to truth, advocating for the general definition of virtue and values. He focused on the search for these definitions. Unlike the Sophists, who were dependent on the force of their arguments, Socrates understood that a deep sense of good and happiness is rooted within us. He argued that those who do evil are acting on a false understanding of what is good.

Morality as Knowledge

Socrates viewed morality as a matter of knowledge. He engaged in dialogues to reach conclusions, often using irony to expose the ignorance of others. His method, known as maieutics, aimed to bring forth knowledge. Socrates did not leave any writings, believing that the written word is dead. He based morality on optimistic reason, stating that a lack of inner peace prevents happiness, and without happiness, one cannot be wise.

Key Concepts

• Moral Relativism: Ethics are group-specific.
• Skepticism: Difficulty in distinguishing right from wrong.
• Socratic Intellectualism: Knowledge leads to virtue.
• Dialogue: The path to truth.
• Inner Peace: Essential for happiness and wisdom.