Modern Wisdom #573 - Dr Victor Kumar - How Did Human Morality Evolve?
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Jan 7, 2023 Dr. Victor Kumar, an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Boston University, dives deep into the fascinating evolution of human morality. He discusses how cultural factors and evolution shape moral decision-making, including why some Asians flush when drinking alcohol and how empathy might serve as social investment. The conversation also explores striking similarities between human and chimpanzee moral emotions, the roots of altruism, and the influence of social media on moral behavior. Prepare for a thought-provoking journey through the complexities of morality!
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Asian Flush
- Asian flush is an adaptive response to early rice farming and alcohol production.
- Those with alcohol aversion were less likely to become alcoholics, thus passing on their genes.
Moral Disgust
- Moral disgust motivates withdrawal and avoidance, a powerful form of social punishment.
- Disgust towards violations of reciprocity, like theft, reinforces group trust.
Evolution of Respect
- Chimpanzees possess some moral emotions, like sympathy, but lack mutual respect.
- Mutual respect likely evolved with increased cooperation, possibly around 2 million years ago with the rise of hunting.
