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where did morality come from?

This is of course a big question and one that cannot be definitively answered.

My own speculation would be that "morality" as discussed here is a characteristic of the human brain. I would note that it is not a universal characteristic- in our time, we have sociopaths and others who have no empathy for other creatures. And human history is full of wars and other demonstrations of morality trumped by other considerations.

But most people seem to have a sort of empathy for others, if not for everyone, at least of others in their own circle. My own opinion would be that it is a characteristic of the complex human brain that has evolved over the millions of years of human existence, just as all other characteristics of the human species have evolved. The "why" would then be an adaptation for species propagation.

"But does the typical atheist wish the same for me in my Theism?"

I would expect so. Why would people judge other people on their beliefs? I have Mormon friends who are so dependable that I would trust my life to them as they could with me. I have a friend who was a Catholic priest, left and got married, did other things. Believe it or not, I've never even discussed religion with these friends. It just doesn't come up and it would not change anything.


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  • where did morality come from? - tunenut 09/19/1209:05:19 09/19/12 (0)

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