Document Type
Article
Publication Date
12-2020
Abstract
I advance a novel challenge for Divine Command Theory based on the existence of psychopaths. The challenge, in a nutshell, is that Divine Command Theory has the implausible implication that psychopaths have no moral obligations and hence their evil acts, no matter how evil, are morally permissible. After explaining this argument, I respond to three objections to it and then critically examine the prospect that Divine Command Theorists might bite the bullet and accept that psychopaths can do no wrong. I conclude that the Psychopathy Objection constitutes a serious and novel challenge for Divine Command Theory.
Recommended Citation
Wielenberg, E. (2020). Divine command theory and psychopathy. Religious Studies, 56(4), 542-557. doi:10.1017/S0034412518000781
