Woo, B. M., Tan, E., & Hamlin, J. K. (2022).
Annual Review of Developmental Psychology,
4(1), 41–61.
Abstract
Scholars from across the social sciences, biological sciences, and humanities have long emphasized the role of human morality in supporting cooperation. How does morality arise in human development? One possibility is that morality is acquired through years of socialization and active learning. Alternatively, morality may instead be based on a “moral core”: primitive abilities that emerge in infancy to make sense of morally relevant behaviors. Here, we review evidence that infants and toddlers understand a variety of morally relevant behaviors and readily evaluate agents who engage in them. These abilities appear to be rooted in the goals and intentions driving agents’ morally relevant behaviors and are sensitive to group membership. This evidence is consistent with a moral core, which may support later social and moral development and ultimately be leveraged for human cooperation.
Here are some thoughts:
This article explores the origins of human morality, suggesting it's rooted in an early-emerging moral core rather than solely acquired through socialization and learning. The research reviewed indicates that even infants and toddlers demonstrate an understanding of morally relevant behaviors, evaluating agents based on their actions. This understanding is linked to the goals and intentions behind these behaviors and is influenced by group membership.
This study of morality is important for psychologists because morality is a fundamental aspect of human behavior and social interactions. Understanding how morality develops can provide insights into various psychological processes, such as social cognition, decision-making, and interpersonal relationships. The evidence supporting a moral core in infancy suggests that some aspects of morality may be innate, challenging traditional views that morality is solely a product of learning and socialization. This perspective can inform interventions aimed at promoting prosocial behavior and preventing antisocial behavior. Furthermore, understanding the early foundations of morality can help psychologists better understand the development of moral reasoning and judgment across the lifespan.
