How do we make moral decisions?

Sources:

Dwarkesh Patel has discussed different aspects related to making moral decisions with various experts:

  1. Considering Multiple Moral Perspectives:

    • Dwarkesh Patel and Holden Karnofsky discussed whether individuals should specialize in their own moral views or consider multiple perspectives. Holden believes it’s natural to recognize various perspectives on what it means to be a good person rather than converting them into a unifying formula. He prefers imagining different perspectives as people trying to make a deal with each other 1.
  2. Moral Progress:

    • In another conversation with Holden Karnofsky, they explored the concept of moral progress, emphasizing that while some believe in objective moral truths, it's also reasonable to think of morality as an evolving concept. Holden suggests thinking about moral progress as gaining more reasonable moral views over time, even though it’s not inevitable or guaranteed 2.
  3. Dealing with Moral Uncertainty:

    • Dwarkesh also engaged with Joseph Carlsmith on moral considerations regarding insect suffering, discussing the uncertainty and moral relevance of the suffering of different creatures. Joseph emphasizes the importance of recognizing the moral patienthood properties and challenges the notion that some actions, like harming insects, are morally neutral 3.

      Making Moral Decisions

      Dwarkesh Patel explores the complexities of making moral decisions and whether individuals should specialize in their own moral views or consider multiple perspectives. The episode delves into the significance of personal choices and the various approaches to determining what it means to be a good person.

      The Lunar Society

      Holden Karnofsky - Transformative AI & Most Important Century
      1
      2
      3

These perspectives provide a multidimensional approach to how we can make moral decisions by considering various viewpoints, recognizing the evolutionary nature of moral progress, and dealing with moral uncertainties.

RELATED QUESTIONS