The propounders of what are called the "ethics of…
““The propounders of what are called the "ethics of evolution," when the 'evolution of ethics' would usually better express the object of their speculations, adduce a number of more or less interesting facts and more or less sound arguments, in favour of the origin of the moral sentiments, in the same way as other natural phenomena, by a process of evolution. I have little doubt, for my own part, that they are on the right track; but as the immoral sentiments have no less been evolved, there is, so far, as much natural sanction for the one as the other. The thief and the murderer follow nature just as much as the philanthropist. Cosmic evolution may teach us how the good and the evil tendencies of man may have come about; but, in itself, it is incompetent to furnish any better reason why what we call good is preferable to what we call evil than we had before.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Argues that moral sentiments evolved like natural traits, but evolution alone cannot justify why good is better than evil.
In simple terms: Evolution explains morality but not its value.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of scientific explanations for ethics.
Themes
ethics
evolution
philosophy
science
Mood
analytical
skeptical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- public policy
- education
- personal moral decisions
Key Concepts
naturalism
moral relativism
biological determinism
Questions to Reflect On
- Can science ever determine moral superiority?
- How do we choose good over evil beyond biology?
A Different Perspective
Evolution does not provide normative guidance.