Moral psychology

Moral psychology is an interdisciplinary field that studies the nature of morality, moral judgment, moral sensation, moral development, and moral character, particularly as these things relate to moral behavior. It is considered a branch of both psychology and philosophy.

History

The study of moral psychology dates back to the ancient philosophies of Plato and Aristotle, who explored questions of character and virtue. In the modern era, moral psychology has been heavily influenced by the theories of Sigmund Freud and Jean Piaget, who focused on the development of morality in childhood.

Theoretical Approaches

There are several theoretical approaches to moral psychology, each with its own focus and assumptions.

Cognitive Developmental Approach

The cognitive developmental approach, influenced by the work of Jean Piaget and Lawrence Kohlberg, posits that moral understanding develops in stages as a person's cognitive abilities mature.

Social Intuitionist Approach

The social intuitionist approach, championed by Jonathan Haidt, suggests that moral judgments are often based on immediate, intuitive responses, rather than deliberate reasoning.

Moral Foundations Theory

Moral foundations theory, also proposed by Haidt, identifies five basic moral values that guide our judgments and behavior: care, fairness, loyalty, authority, and purity.

Research Methods

Research in moral psychology employs a variety of methods, including experimental, observational, and survey methods. Researchers may also use neuroimaging techniques to explore the neural basis of moral cognition and emotion.

Applications

Findings from moral psychology have applications in a range of fields, including law, education, business ethics, and clinical psychology.

See Also

• Ethics
• Moral development
• Moral reasoning
• Moral responsibility