(Plain-speak summarized version of Patrick and Christian’s philosophy:

The Anti-Subjectivist Manifesto: The Case for Consent

By Christian G. Moore and Patrick Smith (Version 1.0 – Simplified by AI)

Preface

Hello, friends! Manifestos are meant to share important ideas and beliefs in a powerful way. Today, we want to talk about a theory called Anti-Subjectivism. It helps us determine what is right or wrong and offers a logical framework for evaluating different ethical theories. Many creators and philosophers are exploring this theory in practical ways. Let’s start by understanding some basic statements about reality that can help us understand Anti-Subjectivism.

Section I: Establishing the Requirements for Functional Ethics

Before we can build any ethical theory, there are three important things we must agree on:

1. Reality exists objectively: We all need to understand that there is an objective reality outside of our own beliefs. Some people may disagree with this, but it’s important to recognize that reality doesn’t change just because we want it to be different.
2. The three laws of logic are necessary for ethical theories: Logic is essential in understanding what is right and wrong. Without logical thinking, arguments and claims have no meaning. We have three important laws of logic that guide our understanding of the world, and any ethical theory must follow these laws.
3. The default ethical environment is amoral: When we are born, we don’t have any inherent moral authority over others. We all start in a neutral state without any ethical rules. This means we are all equal, and nobody has the right to control or harm others.

Section II: Anti-Subjectivism

Now, let’s explore Anti-Subjectivism. Ethical theories begin with the goal to live above the “state of nature,” where might makes right. Science, on the other hand, starts with logical laws that ensure consistency and avoid arbitrary choices. Ethical theories need to follow the same logical reasoning to avoid conflicting behaviors.

Arbitrary choices are unfounded decisions made without a rational basis. We use our ability to reason to make sense of the world and identify contradictions. For example, if someone believes the Earth is flat despite evidence that it is spherical, it’s not the evidence that causes the contradiction. The contradiction arises from their own belief in the flat Earth.

Arbitrary selections are risky because they often lead to contradictions. When something is subjective, without a logical basis, there is no way to measure its validity. If we were to say that 2 + 2 equals 5 without any logical reason, it would be obviously wrong. Similarly, claiming that the highest good is reducing harm may seem reasonable, but without logical justification, it lacks a solid foundation.

Anti-Subjectivism reminds us that arbitrary choices based on personal preference make ethical terms like “good” and “evil” lose their meaning. It encourages us to strive for rationality and avoid making claims without logical justification.

Conclusion

In summary, Anti-Subjectivism is a theory that uses logic and reason to understand ethics. It emphasizes the objective reality we all share, the importance of logical thinking, and the absence of inherent moral authority. By following these principles, we can develop ethical theories that are consistent and fair. Remember to think critically and always seek logical justifications for your beliefs.