If I have a desire to actually shoot someone, a desire that is sufficient to override all other desires which urge me against it—a necessary cause of any willful choice to shoot—why would I not shoot? If Moreland appeals to moral shame or guilt or fear, then he is appealing to a desire. But that is a cause, and that cannot be his special “something.” Likewise, if he appeals to my character, knowledge of God or moral laws, to reasons not to shoot, or any such thing, then he is still appealing to causes. So what is left that could “cause” me not to shoot? Moreland is saying, in effect, that
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