Divine nature theory

Previously, in last week’s discussion forum, my approach to metaethics was the Divine Nature Theory supplemented with the Virtue Ethic Theory. The Divine Nature Theory states that good actions are morally good as a result of their being commanded by God. Those who follow this theory believe moral obligation is obedience to God’s commands and what is morally right is what God desires. Virtue Ethic Theory emphasizes the role of character and virtue in moral philosophy and is person rather than action based. The common goal among both is to become virtuous individuals by fulfilling our purpose that we were created for. In addition, duty ethics (the normative ethical theory that the morality of an action should be based on whether that action itself is right or wrong under a series of rules, rather than based on the consequences of the action) follows the metaethic approach that I would convey. This unconventional morality that applies to everyone everywhere derives from moral standards. When looking at a world issue such as poverty, for instance, applying my metaethic approach of divine nature theory, supplemented with virtue ethic theory and duty ethics would be appropriate, as each person would be called to help because it is the right thing to do. The circumstances surrounding each individual’s situation would not be of concern, since we are not called to judge but to help in times of need. It is by God’s mercy that we ourselves are not in the same or similar situation as those who are impoverished, and we are to have impartiality to those who are less fortunate than ourselves. The moral behavior to help or not help is what’s considered and not simply whether it is right or wrong to do so. Proverbs 22:22-23 states “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. Do not say to your neighbor, "Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you"—when you already have it with you”. Whether homelessness is the result of bad judgment, unemployment, mental health issues, or substance abuse issues, the call for those of us who can help does not change. The National Coalition for the Homeless says that up to one-fourth of the urban homeless are employed. Veterans make up 20 percent of people who are homeless, and about half of the people experiencing homelessness suffer from mental health issues. In addition, the Department of Education found that in the 2013-2014 school year, there were 1.3 million students who were homeless in the public education system alone. It is the Divine Nature Theory that asserts good actions are morally right as a result of their being commanded by God. Knowing this, it is imperative to reference scripture in the management of world issues like hunger, poverty and homelessness. We must also believe that there is a God who exists, has our best interests at heart, and will help us to fulfill the requirements of morality that He has put into place. Without Him, we can do nothing. Reference "The National Coalition for the Homeless." National Coalition for the Homeless. June 2018. Accessed June 28, 2019.