| There are two possibilities: there are such a thing as universal human values, towards which societies fitfully develop (the dignity of the individual, the rule of law, representative government, for example), or universal human values are a fiction, there are only local values and customs. Now, suppose that each nation or tribe has its own values and customs, and they are not rationally reconcilable. Well, one of our values is to resist oppression, and to help others we consider oppressed. Since there is no overarching, universal system of values, there is morally nothing to constrain us from acting as we see fit. Thus, it is dopey for you to complain when we act in character, and to invoke rights of self- determination that do not exist. On the other hand, suppose that universal human values do exist. Then it is likeliest that the society which is the most advanced in science and philosophy and culture would come closest to reflecting universal human values. Well, that is us, and therefore, according to universal human values, our desire to free people from oppression is very likely right...... |
