Briefly explain ethical naturalism

Ethical naturalism is the theory that how things turn out to be can be derived from how the world naturally is. This means that my sense perception is an accurate means of gathering information about what exists . Therefore, moral facts, being natural, are a matter of discovery not decision. GE Moore states that naturalism is a reductive doctrine since is reduces moral values to something else: the natural world. For example, if one wants to find out whether their actions are morally justifiable, they would simly need to observe the physical state of being in the world around them and derive their answer from that. 

MG
Answered by Mia G. Philosophy tutor

2405 Views

See similar Philosophy A Level tutors

Related Philosophy A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the Hedonic Calculus?


Explain how a utilitarian would make a moral decision (5)


What is the difference between act and rule utilitarianism?


What is the difference between deontological and teleological ethics systems?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning