faustus@ucbvax.UUCP (06/27/83)
Lorenzo Sadun claims that without a supernatural source of morality there is no reason to follow a moral code at all. If morality is simply explained by arguments from evolution and psychology, where does that leave the individual's morality? The question here should not be, "Where can we get a basis for our morality", but rather, "What are the ways, besides a divinely inspired moral code, that we can ensure the continued success of civilization?". I think that there are plenty of pragmatic arguments in favor of most of those things which are advocated by conventional morality, and those which have no practical justification have little if any place in the values of a rational person. Besides, it isn't hard to follow a moral code which one has acquired through religous influences while at the same time realizing that there is no coherent justification for them. After all, man is an irrational being, and one's reason and emotions need not, and often do not, coincide. Wayne