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The Problem (and the Value) of Radical Moral Disagreement
David Lyreskog1, Dominic Wilkinson2,3, Caesar A Atuire4
1NEUROSEC, Department of of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, England, UK.
Wellcome Open Research
|November 17, 2025
Summary
Radical moral disagreements (RMDs) are persistent societal conflicts characterized by colliding values and polarization. Understanding these complex phenomena is crucial for coexistence in diverse societies.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Philosophy
- Psychology
Background:
- Contemporary societies grapple with persistent moral conflicts that defy conventional resolution methods.
- Existing analyses of moral disagreement often overlook their complex social and cultural dimensions.
- This study introduces and analyzes "radical moral disagreement" (RMD) as a critical area for scholarly attention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and analyze the concept of radical moral disagreement (RMD).
- To develop a conceptual framework for understanding RMDs.
- To identify key characteristics distinguishing RMDs from ordinary moral disagreements.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis drawing on contemporary moral conflicts (e.g., abortion, climate action, pandemic response).
- Theoretical examination and comparison with other forms of moral disagreement.
- Identification and analysis of seven defining characteristics of RMDs.
Main Results:
- Identified seven characteristics of RMDs: colliding values, intransigence, emotional intensity, polarization, censure, social disruption, and contested epistemologies.
- RMD characteristics are primarily scalar, existing on a continuum.
- RMDs emerge when issues intertwine with identity, power, and risk in specific social contexts.
Conclusions:
- Radical moral disagreements are complex phenomena that can destabilize societies but also catalyze moral progress.
- A theoretical foundation for studying RMDs is proposed, with interdisciplinary research questions outlined.
- Understanding RMDs is essential for fostering coexistence in pluralistic and polarized societies.
Keywords:
Democratic DiscourseEthical PluralismMoral EpistemologyPolarizationRadical Moral DisagreementSocial CohesionValue ConflictMore Related Videos
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