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

2755 Views

See similar Philosophy A Level tutors

Related Philosophy A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain the utilitarian account of morality?


How do I structure a philosophy essay?


Explain Jackson's Knowledge Argument and why it could pose a problem for physicalist accounts of mind.


Is rule utilitarianism a better form of ethical decision making than act utilitarianism?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning