Is ‘Do Unto Others’ Written Into Our Genes?

[Pascal]

Investigating the evolution of human morality:

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/18/science/18mora.html?pagewanted=1&ei=5087%0A&em&en=6df574f0948f0c22&ex=1190347200&adxnnl=0&adxnnlx=1190182844-yIiezHR7D8HK/G9Uj8BhlQ

[agp26]

I thought this article was very interesting. I think Haidt is on to something with his work on the two moral systems: first, ancient moral intuition, and sencond modern rational. I can relate to having 'gut feelings' which I contribute to intuition, followed by a seemingly rational conversation in an attempt to justifiy or rationalize my intrinsic feeling. According to Haidt, intuition evovled as a survival mechanism to aid in quick split second decision making. From my experience this my be true I either go with or against my 'gut feeling'. In relation to other systems such as religon I am able to make the connection between organizing religon and the survival mechansm of a group. Consequently I agree mostly with Dr. de Waal's statement, "...moral system is one that revolves around tension between individual group and interests in a way that seems best for the most members of the group hence promotes a give and take".

[Cdobrick]

Dr. Haidt makes some great insights into the moral decision making of man. I have always wondered the source of ones moral compass, whether it is learned or predisposed. This article provides great insight into some of that since almost everyone does have some sort of sense in what is considered right and wrong. By right and wrong i mean the most basic of things like killing or inflicting harm on another being. I wonder what the moral decision making would be of someone who is found numb to feelings of "disgust" or causing pain.

[mrb67]

Although Dr. Haidt makes some good arguments, I'm not convinced that our morality stems from an evoulutionary process. I don't believe the question of where our morals come from can be addressed through scientific study. Liike Dr. Haidt mentioned early in his article, each person's reference of morality stems from a different external source.I guess it comes down to which side one takes on the common debate in psychology of nature versus nurture: the argument of whether we're born with certain behaviors or if we learn certain behaviors. In my own personal opinion, I believe morality is something that we are taught and reflects what is socially acceptable in one's society.

[nicksingh]

So there are not such things as born criminals?



Gold number

[MichaelSf]

Yeah I guess there are.bastards ....we should shoot the all.

[JamesDub]

THey should be all just sentenced to death...IF you take a life than you must pay with your own...


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