Why be moral? Some reflections on the question

Abstract

In this brief essay we articulate some elementary, though frequently overlooked, logical relations that obtain within the normative domain. We suggest two things: first, that those who believe they are entitled to moral consideration from others cannot rationally, that is, without inconsistency, reject the obligation to extend moral consideration to others. Second, those who reject the view of an objective foundation for moral value judgments cannot rationally, that is, without inconsistency, claim that they deserve moral consideration from others.