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Evolution, therefore, cannot account for the origin of our…

“Evolution, therefore, cannot account for the origin of our moral feelings, let alone for the fact that we all believe there are external moral standards by which moral feelings are evaluated.” quote by Timothy J. Keller
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““Evolution, therefore, cannot account for the origin of our moral feelings, let alone for the fact that we all believe there are external moral standards by which moral feelings are evaluated.””

Timothy J. Keller

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Moral feelings cannot be fully explained by evolution; they imply belief in external moral standards.

In simple terms: Evolution alone doesn’t explain our moral sense.

Key Takeaway

Consider moral intuition as a guide beyond biology.

Themes

morality evolution philosophy

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

philosophical theoretical

When to use this quote

  • ethical decision making
  • religious dialogue
  • philosophical debate
  • education
  • policy making

Key Concepts

meta‑ethics cognitive science

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you think moral standards are universal?
  • How do you reconcile science and morality?
A Different Perspective

Evolutionary explanations may account for some aspects of morality.

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