Non-normative ethics, also known as metaethics, is a branch of ethics that focuses on the study of ethical concepts, language, and theories. It does not provide specific moral guidelines or norms for behavior but rather examines the nature of ethics itself. Non-normative ethics seeks to understand the meaning and justification of ethical claims, the nature of moral values, and the foundations of ethical theories.
Metaethics explores questions such as:
1. What is the nature of moral judgments? Are they objective or subjective? 2. What is the source of moral values? Are they derived from reason, emotions, or external factors? 3. How do we understand moral language? Are moral statements factual claims or expressions of personal preferences? 4. Can ethical statements be true or false? Are moral truths universal or relative? 5. What is the relationship between morality and religion?
In summary, non-normative ethics or metaethics is concerned with analyzing and understanding the underlying concepts and theories of ethics, rather than providing specific moral guidelines for behavior.