Why Good is Good

Where do our moral beliefs come from? Theologians and scientists provide often conflicting answers. Robert Hinde resolves these conflicts to offer a groundbreaking, multidisciplinary response, drawing on psychology, philosophy, evolutionary biology and social anthropology. Hinde argues that understanding the origins of our morality can clarify the debates surrounding contemporary ethical dilemmas such as genetic modification, increasing consumerism and globalisation. Well-chosen examples and helpful summaries make this an accessible volume for students, professionals and others interested in contemporary and historical ethics.

Robert A. Hinde CBE is Professor of Biological Science at St. John's College, Cambridge. He has written widely on topics as diverse as religion and science, zoology, sociology, anthropology, psychology, and ornithology. His most recent book is Why Gods Persist (Routledge, 1999).

Part 1 Setting the stage; Chapter 1 What Does Morality Include?; Chapter 2 The Approach; Chapter 3 Notes for a Conceptual Tool-Kit; Chapter 4 Continuity and Change; Chapter 5 Morality and the Self-System; Part 2 Where do moral precepts come from?; Chapter 6 Acquisition of a 'Moral Sense' and Moral Codes; Chapter 7 Sources of Moral Precepts; Chapter 8 Sources of Moral Precepts; Chapter 9 Sources of Moral Precepts; Chapter 10 Sources of Moral Precepts; Chapter 11 Sources of Moral Precepts; Chapter 12 Speculations Concerning the Emergence of Moral Systems; Part 3 Some practical and theoretical issues; Chapter 13 Sources of Conflict; Chapter 14 Emphasis on Biological Bases is not Biological Determinism; Chapter 15 Conclusion;