Morality : an evolutionary biological perspective

Abstract

This study explores how human beings became moral beings. Are we the only creatures that engage in this way of thinking, doing and discerning? The ultimate focus of this study is to present an integrated perspective on the origin of morality, taking its lead from evolutionary biology. It further stresses the notion that a firmer grip on the origin of morality can provide us with a clearer understanding of what it means to be human. In the discussion of important ethical issues, it is of utmost importance to have a clear understanding of embodied existence. The study commences by gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the origin of morality, which is achieved by exploring the modern discourse on the origin thereof. It consists of an exposition of three perspectives on the origin of morality – theological, philosophical and evolutionary biological – in which the contribution of influential representatives of each perspective are in focus. The study continues with a more in-depth study of the evolutionary biological perspective on the origin of morality. This is accomplished through an in-depth study of primatologist Frans de Waal’s perspective on the origin of morality. De Waal posits that morality is built into our species. Rather than coming to us top-down from God, or any other external source, morality for De Waal arises bottom-up from our emotions and our day-to-day social interactions, which themselves evolved from foundations in animal societies. De Waal’s opinion on the origin of morality is assessed by means of a discussion of contemporary responses on his particular view. This research is undertaken from the basic conviction that an exclusive theological perspective on the origin of morality does not represent a comprehensive genesis of morality. Theology engaging with the evolutionary biology will, therefore, result in a more comprehensive understanding of the origin of morality.