Differentiate ‘moral intuition” from ‘moral reasoning’ with suitable examples.

Introduction:
Moral intuition and moral reasoning are two fundamental concepts in understanding how individuals make ethical decisions. While they both play a role in shaping our moral judgments, they operate differently.

Body:

  • Moral Intuition:
    • Definition: An immediate, automatic response to a moral situation without conscious reasoning.
    • Example: Seeing someone steal and instantly feeling that it’s wrong, without analyzing the reasons.
    • Notable Point: Philosopher David Hume and psychologist Jonathan Haidt argue that morality is often based more on emotions and feelings than on logical analysis.
  • Moral Reasoning:
    • Definition: A deliberate process of evaluating moral situations, considering potential actions, and their consequences.
    • Example: Deciding whether to lie or not by weighing the morality of the action against potential outcomes.
    • Notable Point: Lawrence Kohlberg developed a theory of moral development, suggesting that as people mature, they progress through stages of moral reasoning, from simple obedience to universal ethical principles.
AspectMoral IntuitionMoral Reasoning
BasisEmotions and immediate feelingsDeliberate thought and analysis
SpeedInstantaneousTakes time, involves reflection
ExamplesFeeling that hurting someone is wrongDeciding not to lie because of the potential harm it might cause

Conclusion:
While moral intuition provides an immediate emotional response to ethical situations, moral reasoning involves a more analytical approach, considering the implications and consequences of actions. Both play crucial roles in shaping our moral judgments and guiding our ethical behaviors.

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