The Evolution of Morality and Religion

Donald M. Broom

ISBN 10: 0521821924 / ISBN 13: 9780521821926

Published by Cambridge University Press, 2004

About this Item

Druck auf Anfrage Neuware - Printed after ordering - Accepted codes of conduct and established religions are features of human societies throughout the world. Why should this be In this book, biologist Donald Broom argues that these aspects of human culture have evolved as a consequence of natural selection; that morally acceptable behaviour benefits the humans and other animals and that a principal function of religion is to underpin and encourage such behaviour. The author provides biological insights drawn especially from work on animal behaviour and presents ideas and information from the fields of philosophy and theology to produce a thought-provoking, interdisciplinary treatment. Scientists who read this book will gain an appreciation of the wider literature on morality and religion, and non-scientists will benefit from the author's extensive knowledge of the biological mechanisms underlying the behaviour of humans and other social animals.

Seller Inventory # 9780521821926

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Evolution of Morality and Religion
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication Date: 2004
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521821924
• ISBN 13: 9780521821926
• Binding: Buch
• Condition: Neu
• Dimensions: 235W x 157H x 21D millimeters 235 millimeters width by 157 millimeters height by 21 millimeters depth
• Weight: 596 grams

About this title

Synopsis

Donald Broom argues that morality and the central components of religion are of great value, and presents two central ideas. He asserts that morality has a biological foundation and has evolved as a consequence of natural selection, and that religions are essentially the structures supporting morality. Many philosophers and theologians write about morality and its origins without reference to biological processes such as evolution. Likewise, biologists discuss phenomena of importance to human morality and religion without taking account of the thoughts of others on these subjects.

About the Author

Donald M. Broom is Colleen Macleod Professor of Animal Welfare in the Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine at the University of Cambridge.