36. Why moral theories matter

How to evalutate moral theories
1. Valid/Accurate
Does the theory yield the right answers as principles on temptations?
Does the theory give the right answers in the easy cases?
Does the theory validate certain key principles we believe in: life, liberty, property, equality, freedom.
It should condemn obvious evil and applaud obvious good.

2. Simple
Does it simplify things or make them more complicated? Is it practical and can children learn it?
Is the theory decisive or does it lend itself to multiple interpretations? Experts necessary?
How many exceptions does the theory seem to have, and how hard do we have to work to find them? But does it also allow for them to exist? What kind of explanatory power does it have?
As a theory allows for exceptions, it becomes unsimple. But having no room for exceptions means it is too simple.

3. Practical/Useful
What will a society of people who follow this theory look like, and is it desirable?
What if no one except me follows this theory? Will it still make the world a better place.
Will the theory work with real people in the real world?
Has the theory stood the test of time?
Does the theory help persuade other people?
Does the theory resolve difficult cases to opponent’s satisfaction?

4. Mature/Sophisticated/Complete
Tell us what is moral and immoral and also why. An explanation of moral authority.
Does the theory recognize dilemmas, and resolve them without discounting any important considerations? Without oversimplifying or forgetting that it is a dilemma in the first place.
Does the theory encourage excellence? Support what makes us most human and does it help us grow?
Is it elegant? Does it sometimes have the "Aha!" effect on people?
Does it allow us both to applaud some and also to deplore/criticize others?

5. Rational/Logical
What worldview of moral truth does this theory fit into?
Does the theory contradict itself or is it coherent?
Is it theoretically consistent with itself?
What origin story fits with this theory.