The evolutionary theory of morality

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The evolutionary theory of morality 02.27.04 (4:40 pm)   [edit] Over the past few days, I have been engaging in a discussion with another tblogger in private on the issue of faith. As part of this discussion, she asked me how it is that we have moral standards and where the ability to distinguish between right and wrong originated. So, I present you with the theory of evolutionary morality. The primary principle of evolution is natural selection. Basically, those with the means of survival will outlast those with lesser capabilities to survive. The survival of the fittest is what allows for a species to evolve- the genetic traits that are best suited for our survival are passed down over generations while the traits that are harmful to us are generally weeded out. This is how morality was formed. When we act in ways that are conceived as bad or wrong, we face certain repercussions. The mental process that leads us to determine whether a potential action will result in positive or negative consequences is a result of an evolutionary process. What we generally accept as right or wrong is equivocal to what is beneficial or what is dangerous to us in terms of our survival. The development of morality has occurred over time as a means of enhancing and prolonging our survival If we did not develop the capabilities to exercise morality in our decision-making, we would not be likely to survive. If we were to disregard the consequences of our actions, we would not be acting in ways conducive to our survival. Morality is a mechanism we have developed to assure that we can comprehend and determine the effect our actions will have, then we can decide the actions that best suit us and our survival.   posted by: therealspartacus007 (reply) post date: 02.27.04 (5:30 pm) I agree. I also suggest the book "The Science of Good and Evil : Why People Cheat, Share, Gossip, and Follow the Golden Rule" by Dr. Michael Shermer posted by: DragonBait22 (reply) post date: 02.27.04 (5:47 pm) Reply to: therealspartacus007 Thanks, I'll have to check that out sometime. posted by: newbie (reply) post date: 03.01.04 (9:28 am) If we are constantly evolving into superior moral beings, why are we aborting babies left and right and calling it 'moral'? Why are we still murdering? Why are we still hurting others? Why is there divorce? Why don't we all hold hands and love each other? Why would it be in anyone's self-interest to do something immoral? Hmm? You see, you operate from a flawed view, that man is inherently rational, and for you that means, 'good'. With evolution, it's all gravy as time goes on. But with the advent of moral relativism, with modernism, morals don't mean anything anymore, right? They are intechangeable, they are equal. We should be advancing, not regressing. I would love some proof of the theory of evolutionary morality. Otherwise, faith in the theory is no different than faith in my God. Your Name: Your Comment:

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