The concept of morality is deeply ingrained in human instincts from "summary" of The Human Instinct by Kenneth R. Miller
Morality, the sense of right and wrong that guides our actions, is a fundamental aspect of human nature. It is not something that we learn from society or culture, but rather something that is deeply ingrained in our instincts. This concept challenges the traditional view that morality is a product of religious teachings or societal norms. Throughout history, humans have demonstrated a consistent set of moral values that transcend cultural boundaries. These values include principles such as fairness, compassion, and honesty, which are universally recognized as essential for a harmonious society. This suggests that morality is not a learned behavior, but rather a natural instinct that has evolved over time. The evolutionary perspective on morality argues that our sense of right and wrong has developed as a survival mechanism. Cooperation and empathy, for example, are essential for building social bonds and ensuring the success of the group. This has led to the development of a moral sense that is deeply rooted in our biology. Research in fields such as psychology and neuroscience has provided further evidence for the idea that morality is an inherent aspect of human nature. Studies have shown that even infants demonstrate a basic understanding of moral principles, such as fairness and altruism, suggesting that these values are not learned but rather innate. The concept of morality being deeply ingrained in human instincts challenges the notion that morality is purely a cultural construct. Instead, it suggests that our moral sense is a product of our evolutionary history, shaped by the forces of natural selection. This perspective offers a new way of understanding the origins of morality and highlights the importance of our innate sense of right and wrong in guiding our actions.
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