Can the laws of physics dictate the rules of right and wrong?
In short: Most people believe morality is a matter of opinion or faith, beyond the reach of the laboratory. However, some thinkers argue that as we map the mechanics of human consciousness, we will eventually discover objective moral truths as certain as the laws of physics.
The debate over whether science can provide a foundation for universal moral truths has sparked significant intellectual friction. Sam Harris, a prominent figure in the New Atheist movement, argues that science should be an authority on moral issues. His position is not merely about describing human behavior through evolutionary biology or neurobiology; rather, it is the claim that science can help us understand what we *should* do and want. By understanding the dynamics of human consciousness and cognition, proponents suggest we can reach a point of certainty where we can declare, "this should not be done."
This perspective faces pushback from other scientists, such as cosmologist Sean Carroll, who argues that the practice of science does not inherently allow moral judgments to fall under its purview. The tension lies in the distinction between descriptive science—explaining why people act the way they do—and prescriptive science—determining how they ought to act. Critics of the scientific approach to morality often worry that it lacks the nuance required to navigate complex human experiences, while supporters argue that a maturing science of the mind will eventually provide a framework for the best possible lives.
A key nuance in this argument is the distinction between absolute certainty and practical application. Even if science provides the foundations for moral truth, it may still be difficult to balance individual rights against the collective good. However, advocates for this view suggest that even if there are many ways to balance these interests, the existence of such a balance does not prevent us from using science to condemn extreme moral failures, such as the actions of the Nazis or the Taliban, from a scientific standpoint.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Sam Harris: Science can answer moral questions
- Also: Can Science Answer Moral Questions?
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