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Does God solve the problem of objective morality?

User Nanndoj
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Final answer:

The question of whether God solves the problem of objective morality is complex and has been debated by philosophers. One argument states that if objective values exist, then God exists. However, the Euthyphro Dilemma challenges this idea by questioning the arbitrary nature of morality. The problem of evil further complicates the relationship between God and objective morality.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question of whether God solves the problem of objective morality is a complex one that has been debated by philosophers for centuries. One argument states that if objective values exist, there must be a source for their objective validity, and the source of all value is God. Therefore, if objective values do exist, then God exists. However, this argument raises questions known as the Euthyphro Dilemma. One side of the dilemma suggests that if the good is such because God says it is, then morality is arbitrary. The other side argues that if the good is absolute and God cannot do evil, then we don't need God to determine what is good and what is not. This dilemma challenges the idea that God alone is the source of objective morality.

The problem of evil also complicates the relationship between God and objective morality. If God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-good, how can moral evil exist in the world? Some may argue that evil is caused by human moral agents and not by God. However, this answer fails to explain why an all-knowing and all-powerful God would permit or create agents that cause evil.

It is also important to consider the autonomy of ethics, as argued by philosopher Steven Darwall. This perspective suggests that ethics can have a level of independence from God. According to Darwall, God knows morality best, knows what is best for us, and has authority over us. However, this argument still allows for the possibility that morality can exist independently of God's intervention.

User Chiragkumar Thakar
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