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John asked:

Supposing there are such things as competing basic moral standards, are they equally valid?

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I think validity and moral standard go hand in hand. If the validity of any moral standard were in
question by the proponent of that standard, then there is no standard at all. Now if we consider
whether two standards are equivalent even when opposed, then the answer is Yes.

If we consider whether there is any such thing as Universality or commonality in moral standards then
it boils down to asking is there a Universality and commonality in nature itself. Just as we are impelled
towards a theory that combines all forces in physics similarly if we believe there is an essential unity
in the very nature of things and beings then there has to be a universal element in morality.

I think Jesus captured that element when he stated "Do unto others what you would have them do
unto you".

From a relative standpoint there can be opposition but if there is an absolute standpoint, then from
that standpoint it should be possible to resolve or understand the difference observed in the relative
standpoint.

Gopi Mavankal