Define Moral Realism.

Moral realism is a metaethical theory that asserts the existence of objective moral facts or truths that are independent of individual beliefs, opinions, or cultural norms. According to moral realism, ethical statements express propositions that can be true or false, and there are objective moral principles that hold universally, irrespective of subjective perspectives.

Key features of moral realism include the belief in a moral reality that exists independently of human thought and language, the possibility of discovering moral truths through rational inquiry, and the idea that certain actions are objectively right or wrong. Moral realism contrasts with moral anti-realism, which includes various forms of moral relativism, subjectivism, and non-cognitivism that deny the existence of objective moral facts.

Moral realism allows for the formulation of ethical principles that are not contingent on personal or cultural perspectives, providing a foundation for discussions on moral objectivity and the nature of morality. While moral realism faces challenges, including the articulation of a plausible account of moral ontology, it remains a significant and debated perspective in contemporary ethical philosophy.