Clearer Thinking with Spencer Greenberg Moral Foundations Theory and Constructive Dialogue (with Caroline Mehl)
Feb 10, 2021
Caroline Mehl, Co-founder and Executive Director of OpenMind, discusses the intriguing Moral Foundations Theory and its relevance to communication. She explores how differing interpretations of fairness shape political ideologies and the evolutionary roots of disgust impacting moral judgments. Their conversation dives into the challenges of online communication, the dynamics of moral outrage, and strategies for bridging ideological divides, particularly in areas like criminal justice reform. Mehl emphasizes the need for empathy and intentional dialogue to foster inclusivity and understanding.
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Moral Foundations Theory
- Moral Foundations Theory (MFT) explains human morality like taste receptors.
- We all have the same six moral foundations, but prioritize them differently, creating diverse 'moral profiles'.
Monkey Fairness Experiment
- Monkeys display a sense of fairness, rejecting lesser rewards if others receive more.
- This suggests fairness is deeply rooted, predating humans.
Moral Foundations and Political Divides
- Liberals prioritize care, fairness, and liberty.
- Conservatives value loyalty, authority, and sanctity more equally alongside other foundations.
