Week 3 Journal

1)   To what extent do we learn these ideas of right & wrong from our environment?  To what extent is this morality intrinsic, i.e., present in us from birth?

I feel that we learn ideas of right and wrong from our environment mostly through consequences. When being raised in a certain environment, we learn what is acceptable and unacceptable. We are punished or looked down upon for acting in a way that was not morally correct. Therefore, I believe a large majority of our morals comes from whomever raised us. Also, as we get older and learn how the world is without guidance, society controls our morals as well. We learn what society looks down upon and what consequences come with that act. For example, one may want to steal a clothing piece because they do not want to pay for it. One may think of the consequence of breaking the law and going to jail. One may also feel bad for stealing from the store owner. I believe that our morals are slightly intrinsic. I believe there is some part in us that is naturally empathetic. I think most humans would naturally feel sorry for hurting another human.  

                                                                 

2)   Are there actions you believe are alwaysmorally wrong? Which actions? Why or why not?

When thinking of actions that are always morally wrong, few come to mind. When you are a young child, you are taught to always tell the truth. As you grow up you realize this might not always be the right action. The book mentioned lying about your friend’s whereabouts to protect them from an abusive partner. One action that I immediately thought of is murder. I do not think that is an action that should be in our hands. The book briefly touched on photographing. I believe it is always morally wrong to photograph the deceased without a family’s permission. I believe that respect is owed to the family. 

3)   Can one live morally without the guidance of religion? Why or why not?

I believe one can live morally without the guidance of religion. I feel people make most ethical decisions based off of consequences and loyalty. I believe you can guide yourself and have your own moral code without religion giving you a guideline. That being said, I do believe that religion can help guide you tremendously. Most religions have some of the worst consequences. Christianity threatens hell as a consequence. Religion also has specific guidelines on how to live. It may be easier to believe in a higher power, and be passionate and loyal to that way of living. However, not all religions entail a morally correct code for all societies. For example, Islam believes that self-sacrifice is one of the most honorable actions one could make for their religion. In our society, this action is looked down upon. 

4)   Is empathy the proper basis for morality? Why or why not?

I believe empathy plays a large role in the basis for morality. I believe empathy is intrinsic to us. I feel all humans have some level of empathy. However, we all have different levels of empathy. I believe that the more empathetic we are towards each other, the more morally correct we will be. Putting others first and thinking about how they feel in a certain situation can guide you in making ethical decisions. The example of photographing the deceased works well with this basis. Putting yourself in the family’s position and empathizing with them would help you understand how morally incorrect it would be to release a photo to the public without their permission.