The Evolutionary Psychology Of Human Morality - Rob Kurzban

The Evolutionary Psychology of Morality: A Cynical But Insightful Look at Human Nature

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of evolutionary psychology with Dr. Rob Henderson, a leading voice in the field. Dr. Henderson is a renowned scholar and author whose work explores the deeper motivations and evolutionary roots of human behavior. He brings a unique perspective to the table, offering a thought-provoking exploration of how our evolutionary past shapes our current moral beliefs and actions.

Core Concepts and Philosophies

Dr. Henderson challenges conventional wisdom by arguing that our moral judgments are often deeply rooted in self-interest and a desire to advance our fitness interests. This evolutionary perspective suggests that over time, individuals who advocated for rules that benefited their reproductive success were more likely to pass on their genes. As a result, we are inherently predisposed to strategically play the rules of our social world to ensure our own well-being and that of our descendants.

Practical Strategies and Advice

Dr. Henderson offers valuable advice for navigating the complexities of human morality:

• Question your own motivations: Be introspective and critically examine the underlying reasons for your moral beliefs and actions. Ask yourself how your interests might be influencing your viewpoint, particularly in areas like abortion policy, where the stakes are high.
• Engage in genuine discourse: Seek out conversations with individuals who hold opposing viewpoints. Engage in respectful dialogue, challenging each other's arguments with evidence and logic. This process can lead to valuable insights and a greater understanding of the nuances of the issue at hand.
• Be wary of moralistic pronouncements: While it's important to stand up for principles, be skeptical of individuals who appear overly moralistic or righteous, especially if their beliefs seem to align conveniently with their own self-interest.
• Embrace a "side-choosing" framework: Understand that morality often operates as a mechanism for choosing sides in conflicts. When confronted with a moral issue, consider where you stand in relation to the perceived wrongdoer and how your position aligns with the majority opinion. This framework can help clarify the underlying dynamics at play.
• Recognize the power of signaling: Pay attention to the signals people send, both verbally and non-verbally. Look for costly signals, which indicate a greater commitment to a belief, and be wary of cheap signals, which may be motivated by self-interest or social approval.
• Cultivate a sense of humility: Acknowledge that you don't have all the answers and that your understanding of the world is constantly evolving. Be open to revising your beliefs when presented with compelling evidence or new perspectives.

Supporting Evidence

Dr. Henderson draws on a wealth of research and empirical evidence, including his own studies, to support his claims. He cites the "matter with Kansas" phenomenon, which highlights how people often vote against their self-interest, and the connection between recreational drug use and views on abortion, demonstrating how lifestyle choices can influence moral stances.

Personal Application

Dr. Henderson readily admits that he struggles with the same biases and temptations as everyone else. He highlights his own experiences wrestling with difficult moral questions, emphasizing the importance of continuous introspection and the challenges of maintaining a balanced perspective in a complex world.

Recommendations for Tools and Techniques

Dr. Henderson encourages listeners to engage with resources that can help them develop their critical thinking skills and expand their understanding of human nature. He recommends exploring works by evolutionary psychologists like Robert Wright, John Tooby, and Leda Cosmides. He also highlights the value of mindfulness practices, like those popularized by Sam Harris, as a way to cultivate self-awareness and challenge biases.