Justin Synnestvedt

Modern or Moral Justin Synnestvedt

This book is a philosophical critique of the evolution of beliefs and attitudes about morality in the west - what morality is, where it comes from, and how it is developed. Representative sources over the twenty-five centuries of western history, from the time of Hebrew scriptures and Greek philosophy to the present are analyzed and critiqued. Supplementing these with the work of contemporary academics, conversations with many students and a long life of observing popular media, and people's daily interactions, the author draws conclusions. Thinking and behavior have changed steadily in the direction of naturalism. Especially since the nineteen-fifties, there is an increasing tendency to trust science to answer all important questions, and to believe that financial success is the primary tool for building a good life. The essay makes the argument that morality cannot easily develop in this naturalistic climate. It suggests that to be truly moral, a person must, first, discover principles that go beyond material ends, and second, have a will that is free to choose to follow such principles. Neither of these needs can be met unless the mind can operate in a spiritual realm - that is, a realm which transcends nature. The book was updated and edited in 2018