Beginning a Science of Morality: How the Link Between Well-Being and Neurobiology Can Define Our Values Open Access

Abstract

Moral Science is a novel approach to normative ethics introduced by neuroscientist, Sam Harris. This consequentialist framework utilizes a scientific process to define moral values and rests on a factual understanding of human well being. Though logically sound, this system lacks empirical support. Specifically, Harris defends the potential for science to discover moral values, but he does not adequately explain how a developed science of morality might function.

This thesis aims to construct the empirical groundwork necessary to substantiate Harris' argument by beginning a new science of morality. Chapter one explores conceptions of human flourishing and concludes with two sets of values. Chapter two seeks to define the proposed values by drawing on relevant ideas from neuroscience and biology. Chapter three elucidates the hypothetical construction of the proposed moral science and examines its applications.

Table of Contents

Introduction......................................................................................................................................1

Chapter One: Human Flourishing....................................................................................................7

Chapter Two: Defining Values......................................................................................................33

Chapter Three: Science and Morality............................................................................................53

Works Cited...................................................................................................................................64

About this Honors Thesis

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School	Emory College
Department	Philosophy
Degree	BS
Submission	Honors Thesis
Language	English
Research Field	Psychology, Psychobiology Philosophy Biology, Neuroscience
Keyword	Well-Being Science Ethics Morality Neurobiology Values
Committee Chair / Thesis Advisor	Patterson, Richard, Emory University
Committee Members	Bredlau, Susan M, Emory University Eisen, Arri, Emory University Siegler, Melody, Emory University

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