Origin of Morality

[ShnogTrip]

.....

[padraic]

Quote:Our morals come from common sense

Fine ,except that my perception is that common sense is an oxymoron.

My view is that morality is based on pragmatism,that's why it varies so much. There is only one precept which actually works; 'the ends justify the means',whether the end is individual self interest or the greater good.

My own morality is [ideally] based on self interest and is monitored by conscience,which admittedly can be inconvenient and downright irritating. (I'm a recovering Catholic) I recognise no moral authority apart from conscience.

[KichigaiNeko]

There is only one rule...

"Do as you would be done by BEFORE you are done by as you did!"

Seems to be working so far..

[Paul the Human]

I think that 'morality' was/is/will be formed through evolutionary and sociological means... and formed either before, or simultaneous with, the formation of the notion of 'gods'. It is a matter of survival of the species. So, I guess I pretty much agree with the original post.

[fr0d0]

Religious morality is fixed and not based on shifting human ideals, and is therefore desirable IMO. I don't think that 'proves' anything besides being a good idea.

[Paul the Human]

(7th June 2010 18:09)fr0d0 Wrote:  Religious morality is fixed and not based on shifting human ideals,

That is not actually true, though, fr0d0. There are at least 3 versions of the 'Ten Commandments' currently in use by various religions. Not to mention that the 'morality lessons' taught in the bible(s) have been and are currently interpreted in a ridiculous number of ways.

The man who shouts, "God hates fags!", feels he is acting out of 'religious morality'. Many other religious people would disagree with him. That is only one example, but you see my point, I hope.

[fr0d0]

I do Paul. I should study it more. The interpretation does of course change to suit the times, as it has to. That isn't the same as human desire driving the moral climate, I hope you see the difference