Modern Wisdom #796 - Rob Kurzban - The Evolutionary Psychology Of Human Morality
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Jun 13, 2024 
Rob Kurzban, a psychologist and author specializing in evolutionary psychology, dives into the intricate world of human morality. He challenges the universality of moral principles and reveals how motivations, culture, and personal circumstances influence our views, particularly on sensitive issues like abortion. Kurzban discusses the strategic nature of moral decisions and the role of reputation in moral evaluations. He also tackles the complexities of hypocrisy in society and the potential dark side of moral accusations, emphasizing the importance of wisdom to navigate our moral landscapes.
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Evolutionary Psychology of Abortion Policy
- Abortion views often reflect people's lifestyles and reproductive strategies, not just philosophical beliefs.
- People in monogamous relationships may oppose abortion to deter partners from straying, while single people might favor it for flexibility.
Self-Interest and Morality
- Moral stances often align with personal interests, making cynicism warranted.
- True heroes often support principles that don't benefit them, like civil rights activists.
Morality as a Mask
- We often present idealized versions of ourselves, masking selfish motives with moral language.
- This self-deception prevents us from revealing our true, often less flattering, intentions.