The Origins of Morality: Nature vs. Nurture
The age-old debate over whether humans are born good or evil has fascinated philosophers and scientists alike for centuries. Recent research suggests that the answer may lie in the minds of infants.
Infants and the Roots of Morality
Researchers at Yale and Harvard have conducted innovative experiments with infants as young as 3 months old to explore the origins of human morality. Their findings indicate that infants have an innate capacity for empathy and cooperation, suggesting that morality may be an inherent part of our nature.
Socialization and the Shaping of Morality
While infants may come into the world with a predisposition for good, socialization also plays a significant role in shaping their moral development. Parents, teachers, and peers all contribute to the formation of children’s values and behaviors.
Social Experiments: Exploring Morality in Action
Beyond the laboratory, social experiments provide real-world insights into the complexities of human morality.
Drug Trafficking and Violence in Favelas
In Brazil’s notorious favelas, violent drug cartels hold sway over impoverished communities. Joshua Hammer’s firsthand account exposes the devastating impact of drug trafficking on individuals and society.
The Dangers of Digital Technology
Ron Rosenbaum delves into the warnings of Jaron Lanier, a digital pioneer who highlights the potential risks lurking within the vast social experiment of the internet.
Viva Moulin Rouge!: Breaking the Color Barrier
Kevin Cook revisits a pivotal moment in American social history, when the first interracial casino in Las Vegas challenged prevailing racial norms.
The Emancipation Proclamation: A Legacy of Social Justice
To commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, the article presents historic artifacts connected to this transformative document.
The Draft, the Pen, and the Inkwell
Photo editor Jeff Campagna assembled the Library of Congress’s draft of the Emancipation Proclamation, the steel pen used by Abraham Lincoln to sign the final draft, and Lincoln’s brass inkwell. These artifacts bear witness to the momentous decision that reshaped American history.
Reflections on Human Nature and Morality
The question of human morality remains a complex and multifaceted one. Research on infants suggests that we may be innately predisposed to do good. However, socialization and societal influences also shape our moral development. Social experiments provide valuable insights into the challenges and successes of addressing moral dilemmas in the real world.
The Emancipation Proclamation stands as a testament to the power of human agency in overcoming injustice and striving for a more just and equitable society.
