Conscience: The Origins of Moral Intuition

Neurophilosophy founder Patricia Churchland combines philosophy and neuroscience to explore the brain's role in forming an ethical system, why morality is central to societies society, and how it is transmitted through generations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 02 July 2019
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

Neurophilosophy, founded by the distinguished Patricia Churchland, goes beyond the traditional nature versus nurture debate to unite insights from philosophy and groundbreaking research in neuroscience. Scientific research may not be able to definitively determine what is ethical, and the definition of morality can vary from person to person. However, from birth, our brains are wired to form bonds, cooperate, and care.

Through extensive research studies, including work on twins and psychopaths, Churchland delves deeper into the brain's role in creating an ethical system. She then turns to philosophy to explore why morality is essential to all societies, how it is transmitted through generations, and why different cultures live by different moral systems.

Churchland argues that morality is a product of both nature and nurture. Our genetic makeup predisposes us to certain moral traits, but our environment and experiences shape our moral judgments and behavior. For example, studies have shown that individuals with certain genetic mutations, such as those associated with empathy and altruism, are more likely to exhibit prosocial behavior. However, these genetic traits are not sufficient to explain all moral behavior, as environmental factors, such as upbringing and socialization, also play a significant role.

In addition to exploring the biological basis of morality, Churchland also examines the cultural and social factors that shape moral systems. She argues that different societies have different moral systems because they reflect their unique cultural values, beliefs, and practices. For example, some societies prioritize individualism and self-interest, while others emphasize collectivism and community welfare. These differences in moral systems can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings, but they can also provide valuable insights into the diversity of human experience and the complexity of moral decision-making.

Churchland's work in neurophilosophy has had a significant impact on the field of philosophy and neuroscience. She has challenged traditional philosophical assumptions about the mind-body problem and the nature of consciousness. She has also contributed to our understanding of the brain's role in moral judgment and behavior. Through her interdisciplinary approach, Churchland has shown that the study of the brain can shed light on the deepest questions of human existence, such as what it means to be ethical and why morality is essential to all societies.

Weight: 500g
Dimension: 165 x 243 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781324000891