Intelligence Squared

A History of Good and Evil, with Hanno Sauer

5 snips
Sep 23, 2024
Hanno Sauer, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Utrecht University and author of "The Invention of Good and Evil: A World History of Morality," teams up with Sophie Scott-Brown to unravel the complexities of morality. They discuss how moral frameworks evolve with society and challenge traditional notions of right and wrong. The conversation dives into social progress, the impact of colonial attitudes on morality, and the importance of diverse ethical systems. Sauer advocates for more inclusive participation in defining our moral landscape.
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INSIGHT

Morality's Evolution

  • Morality isn't a fixed set of principles in our heads.
  • It evolves through biological, cultural, and social changes.
INSIGHT

Moral Philosophy's Role

  • Moral philosophy reflects existing social structures, not the other way around.
  • Written records of morality are recent; much evolved before writing.
INSIGHT

Power of Articulation

  • Articulated moral values, though possibly epiphenomenal, influence how we live.
  • They provide a framework for navigating social change and guiding our actions.
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