What is moral intuition prescriptivism?

Moral intuition prescriptivism is a metaethical theory that suggests moral judgments are based on our intuitive moral beliefs or intuitions. According to this view, moral judgments are not derived from reason or empirical evidence, but rather from our immediate and instinctive moral intuitions.

Prescriptivism, on the other hand, is a normative ethical theory developed by R.M. Hare. It argues that moral judgments are not statements of fact, but rather expressions of our personal preferences or desires. Prescriptivism holds that when we make moral judgments, we are essentially prescribing or recommending certain actions or principles to others.

Moral intuition prescriptivism combines these two theories by proposing that our moral intuitions serve as the basis for our prescriptive moral judgments. It suggests that our moral intuitions are not simply subjective preferences, but rather they reflect a deeper understanding of what is morally right or wrong.

According to moral intuition prescriptivism, when we encounter a moral situation, our immediate intuitive response guides us towards making a moral judgment. These intuitions are seen as reliable indicators of moral truth, as they are believed to be shaped by our evolutionary history, cultural upbringing, and personal experiences.

However, it is important to note that moral intuition prescriptivism does not claim that all moral intuitions are infallible or universally valid. It acknowledges that our intuitions can be fallible and subject to biases or errors. Therefore, moral intuition prescriptivism encourages critical reflection and open dialogue to refine and improve our moral intuitions.

In summary, moral intuition prescriptivism is a metaethical theory that suggests our moral judgments are based on our intuitive moral beliefs. It combines the idea of moral intuitions as reliable indicators of moral truth with the prescriptive nature of moral judgments, emphasizing the importance of critical reflection and open dialogue in refining our moral intuitions.