Assuming there is no objective divine reality (i.e. God), then the only reality is one we create with our reason or perceive with the aid of our reason. All people possess reason and thus are equal.

I don’t understand your distinction between metaphysical and physical foundations for values. By definition values are metaphysical. Concepts such as “equality” or “superiority” are value judgments humans create. I assume your argument is that human inequality is based on objective, physical criteria and thus more tangible and true than a metaphysical invention of human equality.

So yes, there are plenty of people who are stronger than me, or smarter than me (or weaker and dumber). In those fields we are not equal. Those are purely physical categories, but they say nothing about whether people are better, worse, or equal. Master morality values strength and power, but we are still making a metaphysical value judgment by rating those who are strong & powerful as better than those who don’t excel in that category.

But I am just making many assumptions now. Why aren’t people equal?

For the record I do believe in God and I am a Christian. I’m comfortable arguing from either a Christian or a secular perspective.

-Alex

Dear Alex, You do realise that your values have metaphysical (not physical) foundations. You may have read Nietzsche, you didn’t understand Nietzsche from what you say.

People are not equal. Only under the eyes of ‘God’ are they equal. Therefore no God = no equality (the actual meaning of “God is dead”) The utilitarians et al had a slave postulate (as Herbert Spencer pointed out to John Stuart Mill).

But anyway, reason does not change people’s minds, their own psychology does (humans believe what they need to believe) – so with a sentimental, weak mind reason will be ignored.

I hope you’re a Christian. If not you are even more hypocritical than they.

Answer me this simple question: If you do not believe in God, why are all people equal?

Sincerely,

Henri

Disability should not be frowned upon. We should have compassion and love for all people, not cast aside the sick and disabled. All people are equal - even the ones that look kinda weird. To embrace a view in line with Nietzsche or the ancient Greeks would represent a backslide of our culture toward barbarism.

-Alex

Before you begin criticising Nietzsche’s philosophy I recommend you study it. You obviously are not aware of the rationale behind slave & master morality; you simply take the conclusions and find they do not accord with your own.

Indeed 300 could be considered Nietzschean. But this should be celebrated as an indication that our culture is growing. Disability should be frowned upon, not celebrated.