Motivation to Keep Objective Moral Rules
In my previous post, I attempted to establish what exactly objective moral rules are. Objective moral rules are defined as rules that apply universally to all people at all times. These rules must be universally applicable and not mere personal opinions. Therefore, as far as I can tell, there are only two ways to arrive at objective moral rules. Firstly, God can give us moral rules that are not reliant on subjective opinions or preferences since God is outside of humanity. Alternatively, as Stefan Molyneux discovered, there are moral rules that, by their very definition, apply to everyone at all times and in every place. These are prohibitions against actions that involve a person against their will. For example, nobody wants to be murdered as it involves killing someone against their will. Thus, the moral prohibition against murder is objective because it is not a matter of one person's opinion but is universally applicable. The prohibitions against assault and theft apply universally as well.
To be clear, a person is free to not adhere to objective moral rules. So, what could motivate a person to keep these rules? Again, an appeal can be made to God. Indeed, theists may find the motivation to keep objective morals because they believe there is a God who will ultimately reward goodness and punish evil. This, of course, doesn’t work for atheists. So, what motivation would they have to keep objective moral rules? It seems to me that if there is the goal to have peace among people, then objective moral rules must be obeyed. Objective moral rules are essential for maintaining peace and resolving conflicts within society. Adherence to objective moral rules fosters an environment of peace where individuals can coexist and thrive, regardless of personal opinions, cultural differences, or situational factors. This is non-negotiable; objective moral rules are the only way to peace. They can be proven similarly to facts in other fields of knowledge. Drawing a parallel to the domain of health, if we value living, it is necessary to nourish ourselves with food and water. If you stop eating, you will starve. This fact applies to all human beings. If you value life and want to survive, you must eat. This is a universal truth that does not rely on subjective preferences.
Similarly, if we value a peaceful society, we must embrace objective moral rules as guiding principles for our actions. Societies should uphold prohibitions against murder, assault, and theft to discourage behaviours that harm others or violate their rights. These objective moral rules play a vital role in maintaining peace and minimizing conflicts within society. They provide a necessary framework for resolving conflicts and restoring a state of harmony. By adhering to these rules, we uphold the principle of non-aggression, creating an environment of peace where individuals can coexist and thrive. In the realm of morality, rules become imperative when conflicts arise. They act as prescriptions that guide us toward resolution and enable us to return to a state of peace. If we value peace and seek to avoid conflicts, objective moral rules offer a clear path to achieving that desired state.
Respecting objective moral rules ensures a society that embraces peace and harmony. History provides ample evidence that societies that uphold individual and property rights tend to be more prosperous and peaceful. Although no society is without its flaws, the principles enshrined in documents like the Declaration of Independence, which respect individuals’ rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, have contributed to the success and prosperity of the United States.
In conclusion, objective moral rules transcend personal preferences and serve as a guiding framework for society. They represent behavioural guidelines that apply universally, promoting peace, justice, and the well-being of all individuals. By adhering to these rules, we pave the way for a harmonious society where each person's rights and dignity are respected. Whether rooted in religious beliefs or secular values, embracing objective moral rules can lead us towards a better world. It is through the understanding and application of objective moral principles that we can create a society where individuals can coexist peacefully, conflicts can be resolved, and the well-being of all is safeguarded.