Neurocognitive Morality

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the public‘s view of the origin of morality. The argument of nature versus nurture within the realm of morality has given rise to persistent questions about the roots of morality. The aim of this study was to determine public opinion as to the roots of morality, in particular whether morality is seen to develop through socialization (nurture) or is a product of individual differences in neurological development (nature). The sample consisted of 118 females and 58 males. The results indicate a statistical significant difference between whether the public believes neurology or the environment is the prime influence on morality development. The mean scores for social origins of morality are significantly higher than neurocognitive origins of morality. Simultaneously, demographic information on gender demonstrated no significant differences in scores between genders. . Social origins of morality received a significantly higher score (M = 5.26, SD = 1.44) compared to neurocognitive origins (M = 4.09, SD = 1.54; t(168) = -6.69, p < 0.001).