The Atheist’s Dilemma: Moral Principles without Divine Revelation

Atheism, in its various forms, posits that God or a higher power does not exist. However, this worldview raises fundamental questions about the nature of moral principles and their relationship to human existence. Can moral principles exist independently of divine revelation? If so, are they binding on humanity? And what are the implications for ethics and morality?

The Problem of Moral Objectivity

Atheist thinkers, such as Richard Dawkins, argue that moral principles can be derived from evolutionary theory and natural selection. According to this view, moral principles are merely a byproduct of human evolution, designed to promote survival and reproduction. However, this perspective raises concerns about the objectivity of moral principles.

If moral principles are solely based on evolutionary pressures, then they become relative to specific contexts and cultures. What is considered morally right in one society may be deemed wrong in another. This moral relativism undermines the notion of objective moral principles that apply universally across humanity.

The Euthyphro Dilemma

In his dialogue Euthyphro, Plato poses a classic challenge to moral objectivity: “Is what is morally good commanded by the gods because it is morally good, or is it morally good because it is commanded by the gods?” This dilemma highlights the tension between moral principles and their relationship to divine revelation.

Atheists often argue that moral principles are not dependent on divine command. However, this approach raises questions about the source and authority of these principles. If moral principles are not grounded in a higher power or objective standard, then they become arbitrary and subjective.

The Argument from Morality

Philosophers such as William Lane Craig argue that the existence of objective moral principles provides evidence for the existence of God or a higher power. This argument posits that:

  1. If God does not exist, then objective moral principles do not exist.
  2. Objective moral principles do exist.
  3. Therefore, God exists.

Atheists often respond by arguing that moral principles can be grounded in human well-being, happiness, or social contract theory. However, these approaches fail to provide a convincing account of moral objectivity.

The Problem of Moral Obligation

Even if atheists can establish the existence of objective moral principles, they still face the challenge of explaining why humans have a moral obligation to follow them. Without a divine authority or objective standard, it is unclear why individuals should prioritize moral principles over personal desires or interests.

The Implications for Ethics and Morality

Atheism’s struggle to provide a coherent account of moral principles has significant implications for ethics and morality:

  1. Moral Relativism: Without objective moral principles, moral relativism becomes the default position, leading to a lack of clear moral guidance.
  2. Arbitrary Moral Standards: Atheist moral frameworks often rely on arbitrary standards or personal opinions, undermining the notion of universal moral principles.
  3. Lack of Moral Accountability: Without a higher power or objective standard, individuals may not feel morally accountable for their actions.

Conclusion

The atheist’s dilemma regarding moral principles highlights the challenges of establishing a coherent and logical explanation of morality without divine revelation. While atheists may propose alternative accounts of moral principles, these approaches often fall short in providing a convincing account of moral objectivity, obligation, and authority.

In contrast, theistic worldviews offer a more comprehensive and logical explanation of moral principles, grounded in the existence of God or a higher power. By recognizing the limitations of atheist moral frameworks, we can reexamine our assumptions about the nature of morality and the role of divine revelation in shaping our understanding of right and wrong.

References

  • Dawkins, R. (2006). The God Delusion. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.
  • Plato. (380 BCE). Euthyphro. Translated by Benjamin Jowett.
  • Craig, W. L. (2013). A Reasonable Faith: Christian Truth and Apologetics. Crossway.

Quotes

  • “The universe we observe has precisely the properties we should expect if there is, at bottom, no design, no purpose, no evil and no good, nothing but blind pitiless indifference.” - Richard Dawkins
  • “You can’t get an ought from an is.” - David Hume