Abstract

The plausibility of construing a theory of moral realism along lines analogous to recent theories of scientific realism was examined. The theses of realism, scientific realism, and moral realism were clarified in order to establish what they entail. Two recent proposals for a model of moral realism were criticized and, in part, rejected. An alternative model of moral realism was advanced which, it was argued, overcame difficulties inherent in the earlier models. Finally, three central objections to moral realism were considered and replies were offered. The results of the investigation indicate that a tentative acceptance of moral realism along the lines envisioned is justified