ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the question of whether there is an asymmetry between trusting testimony about non-moral matters and trusting testimony about moral matters. Objections to testimony about morality are of two types: epistemic and moral. Epistemic problems include the problem of identifying whom to trust (the credentials problem) and the problem of demonstrating trustworthiness (the credibility problem). Moral objections to testimony include the objections from autonomy, authenticity, integrity and moral worth. The chapter argues that, of these, the problem of moral worth is the most significant. Even if trusting moral testimony is not morally ideal, there is still a limited role for deference; for example, when we have reason to doubt our own capacities in the domain in question. The chapter concludes by looking at alternatives to trust including the use of analogies and moral argument designed to foster moral understanding.
