Moral Reasoning - What Do I Even Mean?

Previously, we explored different processes humans employ when seeking moral action. We took a break to find some joy and are now ready to see where the path leads next! First I think a few definitions are in order. Like, what are we even talking about?

Moral reasoning uses critical analysis (breaking down) to determine right from wrong and what to do in a particular situation or event.

Morals are the principles or values relating to right and wrong behavior. I think it is important to keep in mind we are talking about what we say and do, not WHO we are. Nothing in Merriam Webster or Oxford dictionaries connect the word "moral" to individuals, only what individuals do. Thus, there is no such thing as, say, an "immoral" woman or a "moral" man. I think this will be an important distinction later in this series.

Ethics lay out moral behavior within a narrow field or activity such as field of employment or intellectual property such as copyrights, patents, people's creations. It sometimes is used as a synonym for morals but that isn't very accurate.

Justice refers to fair and reasonable. Justice conforms to truth, fact or reason. So we can think of justice as the evaluation of moral or ethical behavior. Evaluation is an important step, either formally in a court of law or informally as personal reflection or group discussion. Evaluation of moral reasoning lets you know how your method is working and if a course correction is needed. I am NOT talking about passing judgement. It is on the individual level we are working toward moral thinking.

So if we had to figure out what to do in a situation why be concerned about doing the "right" thing in the first place? Why not just do what we WANT to do? It seems like a lot of brain work. Essentially, what purpose does moral reasoning serve? As mentioned in a previous post, humans seem to have an innate need to live as a group in a way that leads to the survival of the species. One author suggests the purpose of morality is to "create stability, ameliorate harmful conditions, foster trust, and facilitate cooperation in achieving shared or complementary goals." I've included the source below.

Imagine living in a community or society that is stable, less harmful with members that can be trusted and cooperate with each other. Can you say nirvana?? I feel an internal sense of peace and ease when I imagine it. How do those thoughts make you feel? I bet a group like this could accomplish a lot in this world, too. Doing good and feeling good while doing it. Great slogan! Let's get some t-shirts!

We've explored definitions and rationale and have a picture of the desired end result in mind. Where do we go from here? Stay tuned as we walk the path of moral thinking!

Source: What Is the Purpose of Morality? | Center for Inquiry