#162 Evolutionary Ethics Problems

Problems with Evolutionary Ethics

Evolutionary ethics suggests that we think we have duties but in fact, we have no moral obligations. Evolutionary ethics suggests that our choices are simply evolutionary effects. The problem with this line of thought is that it does not suggest how someone ought to choose to live. When evolutionary ethics could be seen as correct or be correct and still be largely irrelevant to the issue of how someone chooses to behave. 

The most compelling reason to reject evolutionary ethics in Chapter 11 of An Introduction to Biblical Ethics is reason three. This is the issue of trusting our beliefs at all. If our beliefs are the result of evolution then we have no compelling reason to follow that which we believe to be true which is evidently absurd (McQuilkin and Copan, Introduction to Biblical Ethics, 2014). 

Are The Problems Real or Potential?

The issues with evolutionary ethics are real. One of the big issues with evolutionary ethics is that of value. Speaking of the value of ethics, “It makes better sense to say that value came from value—not that valuelessness produced value.” God possesses infinite value while matter apart from God has none. Evolutionary ethics does not make a meaningful distinction between humans, animals, and leaves. Value can only be reasonably set in relation to God. The Christian contention is that human life and existence have meaning because of God and that without God there is no deep meaning. This is even a common representation of hell, as a place devoid of meaning because it is separated from God. Within a Christian worldview then if evolutionary ethics are true it would seem to suggest that life is meaningless. 

Compatible With Belief in God?

Evolutionary ethics may be compatible with a belief in God in a basic sense. But it is not helpful in terms of living life, decision making, or accuracy. Christianity provides real compelling reasons to think and act certain ways. Meanwhile evolutionary ethics offers compelling reasons to reject personal beliefs and makes it morally acceptable to go against your experience. 

Biography 

Robertson McQuilkin and Paul Copan, An Introduction to Biblical Ethics: Walking in the Way of Wisdom, Third edition (IVP, 2014).