Knowing Right From Wrong

This book explores whether objective knowledge of ethics is possible, addressing skepticism surrounding moral beliefs. It argues that human nature is the foundation of ethical understanding and knowledge.

In Knowing Right From Wrong, Kieran Setiya tackles profound questions regarding the nature of ethical knowledge and the possibility of understanding right and wrong. He explores whether it is feasible to achieve objective knowledge about how we should live and what actions are justifiable. Setiya raises critical concerns about the reliability of our beliefs, particularly in light of widespread ethical disagreement. He challenges the notion that our beliefs could be true merely by chance, questioning the foundations of our moral understanding.

Setiya engages with several key arguments that highlight the complexities of ethical epistemology. He addresses the challenge presented by ethical disagreement, arguing that skepticism arises when we encounter conflicting moral views. To counter this skepticism, he suggests that we need to move beyond traditional epistemological frameworks, such as intuition and coherence, which may not adequately support our claims to ethical knowledge. Instead, he advocates for a more robust approach that prioritizes truth in our ethical standards.

Furthermore, Setiya contends that to comprehend ethical knowledge as something more than mere coincidence, we must reconsider the relationship between ethical facts and beliefs. He posits that these facts are intertwined with human nature, shaped by our shared experiences and history. By grounding ethical knowledge in our natural history, Setiya seeks to provide a more compelling account of how we can attain objective moral understanding, ultimately arguing that human nature is the foundation of ethical knowledge.