[ExI] "Objective morality" [Was: christmas songs 2]

[x at extropica.org]

On 12/13/07, Seien <seienchan at gmail.com> wrote:

> In the statement "rationality is objective" is contained the parallel
> statement "morality is objective".

We would do well to recognize that while rational morality is entirely
valid (in the same sense as "rational bridge engineering" is valid),
it is the principles supporting the instrumental methods that are
increasingly objective, while the terminal values to be promoted are
inherently subjective to the agent at the point of decision-making.

Actions are assessed as increasingly moral to the extent they are
perceived in principle to promote an increasing context of
increasingly coherent (subjective) values over increasing scope of
(objective) consequences.  Wash, rinse, repeat.

This understanding becomes increasingly important as technology
amplifies the effects of private choices and public consequences.