Do the folk need a meta-ethics?

Area of Science:

• Social Philosophy
• Moral Psychology
• Game Theory

Background:

• Stanford's theory posits that objectification of moral norms facilitates correlated interaction among cooperators.
• This perspective frames the discussion around a moral/non-moral distinction.
• The concept of correlated interaction is central to understanding cooperation dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate Stanford's proposed distinction between moral and non-moral norms.
• To re-examine the role of norm objectification in achieving correlated interaction.
• To challenge the causal link between objectified norms and cooperative outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Philosophical argumentation and conceptual analysis.
• Deconstruction of the moral/non-moral dichotomy.
• Critique of the functional role attributed to norm objectification.

Main Results:

• The moral/non-moral distinction, as framed by Stanford, is found to be problematic.
• Norm objectification, if present, is argued to be minimal ('thin').
• The primary motivation for norm objectification is not the achievement of correlated interaction.

Conclusions:

• The framework of moral versus non-moral norms requires revision.
• The extent and function of norm objectification in social coordination are re-evaluated.
• Alternative explanations for correlated interaction in cooperative settings may be necessary.