Final answer:
The fact-value distinction refers to the separation of empirical statements about the world (facts) from value judgments (values). Descriptive claims are about observable facts, while evaluative claims are about moral or ethical judgments. Understanding this distinction is critical in philosophy, especially in metaethics and value theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Fact-Value Distinction
The fact-value distinction separates what is actually the case (facts) from what we think ought to be the case (values) based on our personal beliefs about what is good, beautiful, or important. Descriptive claims focus on statements about matters of fact, while evaluative claims express a judgment about something's value or how things ought to be.
Descriptive vs. Evaluative Claims
Descriptive claims describe the world as it is, using observable and verifiable data. For example, "The weather today is sunny" is a descriptive claim because it simply states what is seen. On the other hand, evaluative claims involve judgments about how the world should be based on certain standards or values, such as "Killing an innocent person is bad" which reflects a moral judgment rather than an observable fact.
Metaethics and Value Theory
Metaethics explores the nature of moral values, whether they are objective or subjective, and involves questions of morality, which is the main concern of normative ethics. Value theory is a branch of philosophy that examines debates over what is good or bad. Discussions around telos argue that values can be objectively assessed if they fulfill a purpose or goal.
Overall, distinguishing between facts and values is crucial for understanding the essence of various philosophical and ethical discussions.