Showing posts with label science. Show all posts
Showing posts with label science. Show all posts

Sunday, 25 May 2014

Steven Weinberg versus science-based morality


In 2012, a number of well-known scientists and philosophers gathered for a weekend to discuss hot-topics or unresolved issues within naturalism.  Basically they were trying to scope out and/or develop a more coherent world-view from a strictly scientific/materialist perspective.  The entire series is still available online and worth watching if you missed it.  

One video is dedicated to their discussion of morality.  To my surprise Steven Weinberg, a physicist, presented a solid argument against so-called science-based moral theories.  His portion begins about 7 minutes into the video, and he remains pivotal to the remaining discussion.

Sunday, 13 April 2014

Against a Moral Landscape


I'm officially opening the site with the "publication" of my full response to Dr Sam Harris's book, The Moral Landscape.   Pictured above is my well worn and marked-up copy of said book.  While I found the overall concept intriguing, I had severe problems with the details (or lack thereof).

It seemed to me that Harris's intent was not so much about launching a well thought out moral system, but rather to indict moral relativism and multiculturalism (as abettors of religious intolerance).  In my response, I deal with both his moral theory and his criticisms of other moral positions.

You can also check out my entry into Harris's essay contest.  It contains some of my arguments against the moral system he advances.  It wasn't chosen, but that does not mean the points have been refuted by Harris, or can be.  I wish the winner of the contest much success in moving Harris toward a more sound position regarding (science and) morality.