Differentiate ‘moral intuition” from ‘moral reasoning’ with suitable examples.
Introduction:
Moral intuition and moral reasoning are two fundamental concepts in understanding how individuals make ethical decisions. While they both play a role in shaping our moral judgments, they operate differently.
Body:
- Moral Intuition:
- Definition: An immediate, automatic response to a moral situation without conscious reasoning.
- Example: Seeing someone steal and instantly feeling that it’s wrong, without analyzing the reasons.
- Notable Point: Philosopher David Hume and psychologist Jonathan Haidt argue that morality is often based more on emotions and feelings than on logical analysis.
- Moral Reasoning:
- Definition: A deliberate process of evaluating moral situations, considering potential actions, and their consequences.
- Example: Deciding whether to lie or not by weighing the morality of the action against potential outcomes.
- Notable Point: Lawrence Kohlberg developed a theory of moral development, suggesting that as people mature, they progress through stages of moral reasoning, from simple obedience to universal ethical principles.
| Aspect | Moral Intuition | Moral Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Emotions and immediate feelings | Deliberate thought and analysis |
| Speed | Instantaneous | Takes time, involves reflection |
| Examples | Feeling that hurting someone is wrong | Deciding not to lie because of the potential harm it might cause |
Conclusion:
While moral intuition provides an immediate emotional response to ethical situations, moral reasoning involves a more analytical approach, considering the implications and consequences of actions. Both play crucial roles in shaping our moral judgments and guiding our ethical behaviors.
