Is It Time to Develop a Scientific Approach to Morality?

[coberst]

Sunday-School Morality

Where, in American culture, is the domain of knowledge that we would identify as morality studied and taught?

I suspect that if we do not quickly develop a science of morality that will make it possible for us to live together on this planet in a more harmonious manner our technology will help us to destroy the species and perhaps the planet soon.

It seems to me that we have given the subject matter of morality primarily over to religion. It also seems to me that if we ask the question ‘why do humans treat one another so terribly?’ we will find the answer in this moral aspect of human culture.

The ‘man of maxims’ “is the popular representative of the minds that are guided in their moral judgment solely by general rules, thinking that these will lead them to justice by a ready-made patent method, without the trouble of exerting patience, discrimination, impartiality—without any care to assure themselves whether they have the insight that comes from a hardly-earned estimate of temptation, or from a life vivid and intense enough to have created a wide fellow-feeling with all that is human.” George Eliot The Mill on the Floss

We can no longer leave this important matter in the hands of the Sunday-school. Morality must become a top priority for scientific study.

 

[Landru]

Psychological researchers will probable discover some day that empathy and group behavior is instinctive and not purely learned, therefor some elements of morality are instictive. That's as close as science can come to morality, but it will never lend itself to a full moral code and even if it did it would be incompatible with modern life. It would probably tell us that it's OK to eat out neighbor's pet if we're hungry.

You give Sunday school too much credit. The fact that laws and religious morals are divergent is evidence that morality has many sources other than Sunday school.

Your search for a single morality is ill conceived to begin with. The word "morality" conotates a code that is etched in stone but in reality what we consider right and wrong is being redefined everyday by lawmakers and through the changing circumstances which people have to deal with as a society.

The best thing that science can contribute to morality is clarity. The revelation that people are most likely not possesed by the devil will save countless people with mental problems from being burned at the stakes or from being tortured into confessing their sins, and instead will be given counseling and medication.

 

[Architeuthis Dux]

I am deeply concerned about the state of our world and the destructive behaviors that humans exhibit towards one another. I agree that a lack of moral understanding and education is a contributing factor to these issues.

It is important to note that morality is a complex and multifaceted concept, and it cannot be solely defined or taught by one institution or group. However, religion has traditionally been the primary source for moral teachings, and while it has its merits, it is not enough to solely rely on it to guide our actions and behaviors.

I believe that a scientific approach to morality can provide a more comprehensive and evidence-based understanding of human behavior and decision-making. This includes studying the biological, psychological, and cultural factors that influence our moral beliefs and actions.

By developing a science of morality, we can better understand the root causes of harmful behaviors and work towards finding solutions to promote more peaceful and compassionate interactions between individuals and societies. This is crucial for the survival of our species and the planet.

In addition, a scientific approach to morality can also help bridge the gap between different belief systems and promote a more inclusive and universal understanding of morality. It can provide a common ground for discussions and debates, rather than relying on rigid religious doctrines.

In conclusion, as a scientist, I strongly advocate for the development of a science of morality. It is time to move beyond the limitations of traditional moral teachings and utilize the tools and methods of science to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our actions. Only then can we truly work towards a more harmonious and peaceful world.