According to the criticism, there are only two ways to answer this question, and both answers are bad for divine command theory. In this assignment, explain both answers, and how each answer leads to a problem for divine command theory. Explaining Both Sides One answer to the dilemma is to say “an action is morally good because God says it is.” In 2 to 4 sentences, briefly explain what this means in your own words. Another answer to the dilemma is to say “God says an action is morally good because it is good.” In 2 to 4 sentences, briefly explain what this answer means in your own words. In 2 to 4 sentences, briefly explain the difference between the first answer and the second answer.

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The Euthyphro dilemma is a common, tricky criticism of divine command theory. It stems from the following question:

  • “Is an action morally good because God says it is, or does God say an action is morally good because it is good?”

According to the criticism, there are only two ways to answer this question, and both answers are bad for divine command theory. In this assignment, explain both answers, and how each answer leads to a problem for divine command theory.

  1. Explaining Both Sides
    1. One answer to the dilemma is to say “an action is morally good because God says it is.” In 2 to 4 sentences, briefly explain what this means in your own words.
    2. Another answer to the dilemma is to say “God says an action is morally good because it is good.” In 2 to 4 sentences, briefly explain what this answer means in your own words.
    3. In 2 to 4 sentences, briefly explain the difference between the first answer and the second answer.
  2. Explaining Why Each Answer is Bad for Divine Command Theory
    1. Consider the first answer again: “an action is morally good because God says it is.” In 2 to 4 sentences, explain how this answer is a problem for divine command theory.
    2. Consider the second answer: “God says an action is morally good because it is good.” In 2 to 4 sentences, explain how this answer is a problem for divine command theory.
  3. Your Opinion: Do you think this is a good criticism of divine command theory? That is, do you think it shows why divine command theory isn’t a good theory of ethics? Why or why not? Explain and defend your opinion in 2 to 4 sentences.

More information on divine command theory and the “Euthyphro dilemma” criticism are available in the readings “Because God Said So Download Because God Said So” by Spencer Case and excerpts from “The Euthyphro Download The Euthyphro” by Plato.

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