Are Human Beings Born Moral Or Amoral?

ENDOWED WITH MORALS or self-serving savages from birth? The classic debate will most likely continue forever, with each side vigorously defending its position. Observers will come away believing that either (1) man is a greedy, selfish creature who cares about nothing but himself, or (2) man is by nature a kind-hearted, peace-loving being who disdains violence.

But which side is correct? Neither...............and both!

Such an answer may appear to be a conveniently-timed dodge, but one must remember that inquiring minds have a tendency to unnecessarily complicate matters by searching for absolutes rather than seeking the simplest, most logical explanation.

To the critics, I would argue that although one cannot deny that human beings are naturally kind and thoughtful creatures, they nevertheless possess an overriding instinct for self-preservation, which inevitably leads to gut-wrenching conflict within, and this new perspective changes the entire premise of the debate, putting the spotlight on the raging battle between man's 'moral' nature and his 'amoral' instincts.

Which side will emerge victorious?

It all depends, because when people are unable to observe the real-life impact of their actions on other people's lives, their amoral instincts will win. For example, a man who finds $50.00 on the sidewalk may very well keep it because that money will allow him to acquire extra goods and services. On the other hand, if he knew that the $50.00 belonged to a single mother of three who had planned on using it to feed her kids for the day, then he would almost certainly return it. (The difference being that the new information acts as a 'trigger' to release his innate moral goodness)

One must always remember, the question isn't about whether or not human beings are born morally superior or morally indifferent. Each man harbors two opposing forces within his soul, and these forces are constantly competing, constantly fighting for control of him...