Stoics such as Epictetus argue for moral relativism and against the idea of a universal moral law.

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The statement presents a claim about Stoic ethics and universal moral law, so we should evaluate its components carefully.
Option 1: True. If one assumes that Stoics advocate moral relativism, this would imply that ethical judgments vary by culture, person, or situation with no universal standard. However, classical Stoic theory, as developed by thinkers like Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius, is grounded in the idea that there is a rational nature (logos) governing the cosmos and that moral law is universal and applicable to all rational beings. This makes the assertion that Stoics argue for moral relativism inconsistent with their position on universal reason and natural law.
Option 2: False. This option aligns with the historical understanding of Stoicism. Epictetus and other Stoics argued that virtue is living in accordance with reason and nature, which provides objective duties and universal principles such as justice, temperance, courage, and wisdom. They held that external circumstances do not determine moral value and that certain acts are inherently right or wrong for all rational agents, thereby supporting a universal moral law rather than relativism.
In sum, the claim that Stoics argue for moral relativism and against a universal moral law misconstrues their core view of a rational, universal standard that governs ethical obligation. The Stoic position emphasizes universal moral law grounded in rational nature, not relativism. The analysis of the two options shows that the statement in question does not accurately characterize Epictetus’s ethical framework.

Introduction to Ethics Quiz for Unit 2

Stoics such as Epictetus argue for moral relativism and against the idea of a universal moral law.

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