Morality is a product of evolution from "summary" of The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt
The idea that morality is a product of evolution is a provocative one. Many people find it difficult to accept that our moral beliefs and judgments are not the result of rational thinking or divine revelation, but rather the outcome of a long process of biological and cultural evolution. However, the evidence supporting this idea is compelling. When we look at the moral beliefs and behaviors of different cultures and societies, we see a remarkable degree of similarity. This suggests that there are certain moral principles that are universal, or at least widely shared, among human beings. These principles are not arbitrary or subjective, but rather have been shaped by the forces of evolution. One of the key insights from evolutionary theory is that human beings are social animals. We have evolved to live in groups, and our survival and reproductive success depend on our ability to cooperate with other...Similar Posts
Evolutionary explanations can help us understand a range of behaviors
Consider human aggression. You could focus solely on the proximate explanations for why one person punches another in the face....
Understanding our instincts can lead to greater selfawareness and empathy
Instincts are deeply ingrained in our biological makeup, influencing our behavior and decisions on a subconscious level. By tak...
Moral sentiments are integral to human nature and social order
The moral sentiments that guide our actions are not something external or acquired, but rather inherent to our very nature. The...
Custom and habit influence human actions
Custom and habit play a significant role in shaping human behavior. These two factors are deeply ingrained in our daily lives, ...
Liberals and conservatives prioritize different moral values
The moral foundations that we use to make judgments about right and wrong are like taste buds, guiding us towards what feels ri...