The Wrap-Up: Morality (Again...)
June 29th 2009 21:35
Morality is a natural, adaptive phenomenom, that much we know So, why do some people behave in ways that, if they were animals, would cause them to be forcibly ejected from their pack? Does this not undermine the arguments stated above?
Well, no, actually. We, unlike the animals, have cultural norms and a language which allows us to state our thoughts in a very persuasive fashion. You see, rationality is also a tool. Used properly, we can use it to uncover great truths about ourselves and our universe. Used improperly, it can justify anything. Most people would think nothing of stealing, if they were hungry; The death penalty uses killing to right a wrong; The Nazis killed millions, mostly because they were afraid of being killed themselves (by the "loyal" Nazis.) Entire cultures have been founded based on rationalizations. Some, by codifying morality and truth, strengthened our sense of morality, even to the point where we would die merely for a principle (like freedom). Others detract from our sense of morality, placating us with the promise of a better future while simultaniously threatening use with punishment if we disobey (like fascism. . . or religion).
As you can see from history, culture can both create and destroy. Culture can make our sense of morality deeper or shallower, all while touting many of the same goals (just watch any political debate). Thus, we say that our sense of morality is inborn, yet dependent on the culture in which we live. G'day, everyone.
Well, no, actually. We, unlike the animals, have cultural norms and a language which allows us to state our thoughts in a very persuasive fashion. You see, rationality is also a tool. Used properly, we can use it to uncover great truths about ourselves and our universe. Used improperly, it can justify anything. Most people would think nothing of stealing, if they were hungry; The death penalty uses killing to right a wrong; The Nazis killed millions, mostly because they were afraid of being killed themselves (by the "loyal" Nazis.) Entire cultures have been founded based on rationalizations. Some, by codifying morality and truth, strengthened our sense of morality, even to the point where we would die merely for a principle (like freedom). Others detract from our sense of morality, placating us with the promise of a better future while simultaniously threatening use with punishment if we disobey (like fascism. . . or religion).
As you can see from history, culture can both create and destroy. Culture can make our sense of morality deeper or shallower, all while touting many of the same goals (just watch any political debate). Thus, we say that our sense of morality is inborn, yet dependent on the culture in which we live. G'day, everyone.
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