Morality De-Kanted or the Biological Roots of Moral Behavior

Schroeder, D. J. (2000). Morality De-Kanted or the Biological Roots of Moral Behavior. International Journal of Value-Based Management, 13 (3): 297-308.

 Abstract: The ethical and moral behavior of Homo sapiens is no longer the exclusive domain of religion and philosophy because we recognize that such behavior affects the reproductive success of individuals within the species. We are a social species and therefore our survival is influenced by our capacity for cooperation and our willingness to take risks for kin. Emotions, some of which are found in other species, help to mediate our altruistic behavior. The reproductive benefits of helping kin, especially offspring, are readily seen. Helping non-kin can be beneficial if individuals can differentiate between ‘reciprocators’ and ‘non-reciprocators’ and direct altruistic behavior toward reciprocators. Also, if third parties are favorably impressed by observing altruistic behavior, the rewards need not come from the recipient of the altruistic behavior.

Source: SpringerLink