Final answer:
Consistency with one's conscience is indeed a part of the moral criteria of adequacy. Moral theories should provide clear guidance aligned with rationality and evolved moral instincts, and conscience acts as a monitor of behavior within these frameworks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question addresses the idea of moral criteria of adequacy and whether consistency with our conscience is part of this. In the realm of ethical studies, it's widely accepted that a normative moral theory should provide clear guidance on what is considered morally right or wrong. These theories often incorporate aspects such as the outcomes of actions (consequences), duties or obligations, and the character or virtues of the moral agent.
One major component debated in ethics is the role of conscience, an internal sense of right and wrong, in determining moral behavior. Moral consistency requires this internal judgment to align with the broader moral framework or theory. The conscience is seen as a source of moral guidance and a judge that monitors our behavior, reflecting our innate social instincts which have evolved over time.
Philosophers such as Immanuel Kant have emphasized the necessity of rationality in moral considerations, proposing categorical imperatives as a test of moral actions. Conversely, Anscombe highlighted concerns with modern secular moral philosophies when separated from a theistic framework, suggesting the potential lack of a solid foundation. However, many modern ethical theories continue to explore human flourishing and virtue to establish a secular basis for moral philosophy.
Ultimately, a satisfactory moral theory aims to provide a coherent framework, adequately addressing metaethics, normative ethics, and applied ethics, while maintaining consistency with our evolved moral instincts and personal conscience.