People are divided by moral foundations from "summary" of The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt
In order to understand the concept that underlies the division of people based on moral foundations, it is essential to delve into the intricate workings of the human mind and the factors that shape our moral beliefs and values. The idea that individuals are inherently divided by their moral foundations stems from the notion that different people prioritize and value different moral principles to varying degrees. This division is not merely a result of individual preferences or upbringing, but rather a fundamental aspect of human nature that has been shaped by evolutionary processes over time. Our moral foundations can be thought of as the underlying principles or values that guide our judgments and decisions in ethical dilemmas. These foundations are not consciously chosen, but rather ingrained within us through a combination of genetic predispositions, cultural influences, and personal experiences. The moral foundations theory posits that there are several key dimensions along which moral judgments can be made, including care/harm, fairness/cheating, loyalty/betrayal, authority/subversion, sanctity/degradation, and liberty/oppression. What sets individuals apart in terms of their moral foundations is the degree to which they prioritize and emphasize certain dimensions over others. For example, a person who places a high value on the care/harm foundation may be more inclined to prioritize compassion and empathy in their moral reasoning, while someone who values the authority/subversion foundation may place greater importance on respect for tradition and authority figures. These differing moral priorities can lead to significant disagreements and conflicts between individuals who place emphasis on different foundations. The division of people by moral foundations is further exacerbated by the phenomenon of moral pluralism, which suggests that there is no single, universally accepted set of moral principles that can guide human behavior. Instead, individuals and groups may subscribe to different moral frameworks that are based on distinct combinations of moral foundations. This pluralism can give rise to moral diversity and cultural variation, as different societies and communities may prioritize different moral values based on their unique histories and circumstances.- The concept that people are divided by moral foundations highlights the complexity and diversity of human morality. By recognizing and understanding the underlying principles that shape our moral beliefs, we can gain insight into the factors that drive moral disagreements and conflicts between individuals and groups. This concept challenges us to appreciate the multifaceted nature of human morality and to approach moral disagreements with empathy and understanding.
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