The Dimensions of Moral Theory

Abstract

The paper investigates the basic dimensions of moral theory. In the first part, we present the distinction between the moral questions of the first order and the second order and connect the latter with moral theory and metaethics. Then we distinguish between the five core dimensions of moral theory, namely moral ontology, moral semantics, moral epistemology, moral psychology, and moral phenomenology. Additionally, we present the basic positions within the framework of these dimensions. The article concludes with reflections on the best point of entry into the metaethical debate and on some new development trends in this field of moral philosophy.