You’ve probably heard someone argue that morality is subjective. What’s right and wrong depends on the person, culture, or circumstances. While that view has become popular, there are some moral truths that are objective – they apply to all people, at all times, in all places. Don’t worry, this isn’t going to be a heavy philosophical discussion.
Instead, we’ll explore twelve simple examples of objective moral truths through some thought experiments. These truths may be inconvenient, but deep down, you know they’re right. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of why morality isn’t as subjective as some people claim.
So take a few minutes to open your mind and follow along as we reason through these self-evident moral realities together. You might just find your view of ethics and human nature positively challenged.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Objective Morality
As fellow inhabitants of this planet, we all share some basic moral truths. For example, harming others against their will is wrong. Whether through violence, theft, or deceit, violating someone else’s basic rights violates an objective moral standard.
Likewise, helping others in need is right. If someone is suffering or struggling, and you have the means to assist them at little cost to yourself, it is morally good to do so.
These objective moral truths arise from the fact that we are social creatures who depend on cooperation, empathy, and goodwill to thrive. By recognizing these shared values, we can build a more just, compassionate, and prosperous society together.
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The Golden Rule as an Objective Moral Truth
When it comes to moral truths, the Golden Rule is a classic. Treat others the way you want to be treated.
It’s Universal. Nearly every religion and moral philosophy espouses some version of the Golden Rule. It appeals to our innate sense of fairness and reciprocity.
You know how it feels when someone cuts you off in traffic or pushes past you in line. So by following the Golden Rule, you make a point to be courteous to others in those situations. And when you hold the door for someone or let another driver merge in front of you, you’re putting good moral behavior into the world.
The Golden Rule is one moral truth that spans beliefs and borders. Following it leads to a kinder, gentler society where people treat each other with compassion. And that’s something we could use more of.
Preserving life is morally good. Preserving human life is one of the most fundamental moral goods. Whether through acts of heroism that save lives or simple kindnesses that make life better, valuing life itself is a moral truth that stands the test of time.
Altruism and charity are virtues. Giving to others without expecting anything in return is a moral good. When you donate your time, skills, or money to help those less fortunate, it benefits society as a whole. Charitable acts, both big and small, make a difference in people’s lives and bring communities together. Next time you see a charity drive or fundraiser in your area, consider chipping in or volunteering your time. Your selfless contribution will help uplift the human spirit.
Objective morality examples
Objective morality is the idea that moral principles are universal, absolute, and independent of human opinions or preferences. For instance, one might argue that killing innocent people is always wrong, regardless of the circumstances or the culture. Similarly, one might claim that lying is always wrong, even if it benefits oneself or others. Another example of objective morality is the belief that human rights are inherent and inviolable and should be respected by all people and governments.
1. Honesty and Integrity Build Trust
Being truthful and acting with integrity are choices that build trust in relationships and in society. When you are honest in your words and deeds, people know they can depend on and believe in you. Consistently choosing the ethical path, even when it’s difficult, establishes your dependability and uprightness. Over time, the trust gained from honesty and integrity becomes the foundation for healthy, long-lasting relationships.
2. Human Dignity Is Sacred
As human beings, we all have an inherent and inalienable worth. Regardless of our gender, race, beliefs, or background, every person deserves to be treated with basic dignity and respect. When we recognize the dignity in others and treat people the way we ourselves would want to be treated, we build a more just, compassionate, and equitable society. Upholding human dignity means defending the rights and welfare of all people.
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3.Upholding Justice Fairly
When judging others’ actions, do so impartially. Apply the same standard of ethics evenly across the board, not wavering due to personal biases or relationships. Consider the context and intent behind people’s choices before passing judgment. Seek to understand different perspectives and be open-minded rather than closed-minded. This balanced, unprejudiced approach is the hallmark of a just system.
4. Protecting the Vulnerable
It is morally right to defend those who can’t protect themselves. The weak and vulnerable members of society rely on the strong and able to advocate for them. Whether it’s children, the elderly, the physically or mentally disabled, or the poor, we have a responsibility as fellow citizens and human beings to make sure their basic rights and needs are met.
No one asks to be born into a disadvantaged situation, so providing assistance to improve people’s circumstances and enable them to live healthier, happier lives should be an objective moral good.
5. Compassion Towards Others
Showing compassion for others is one of the highest moral virtues. When you make an effort to understand what others are going through and offer kindness, it creates positive ripples that spread outward.
Reach Out. Make a phone call to someone you know is having a hard time. Let them know you’re thinking of them. Send a card or small gift to lift their spirits. Make the time to listen without judgment and provide comfort. Extending compassion to those in our inner circles fosters stronger relationships and communities.
6. Respecting Individual Rights
When it comes to morality, some truths are objective and unchanging. One example is respecting individual rights.
Each person has inherent rights and freedoms that should not be infringed upon by others. Things like the right to life, free speech, freedom of thought, and privacy are moral absolutes that apply to all humans equally. Upholding and protecting people’s basic rights is always the morally right thing to do.
7. Helping Others in Need Is Morally Good
When you see someone struggling or in need, lending a helping hand is the right thing to do. Whether it’s donating your time, skills, money or resources, providing aid and assistance to others is one of the most fundamental moral acts. We are all fellow inhabitants on this planet, connected in our shared human experience. Reaching out to uplift others in times of difficulty, hardship or crisis is how we strengthen the bonds of community and advance together.
8. Keeping Promises Upholds Integrity
Keeping your word shows you have integrity. When you make a promise to someone, follow through. Do what you say you’ll do. Don’t break your promise or commitment unless absolutely necessary.
9. Lying Erodes Trust in Society
Lying destroys the bonds of trust in society. When you lie to someone, you damage their ability to believe what you say in the future. If lying became commonplace and accepted, we couldn’t have a functioning society or even maintain close relationships.
10. Treating All People Equally Promotes Justice
Justice and equality go hand in hand. When we treat all people fairly and impartially, regardless of their race, religion, gender, or other attributes, it fosters a just society. Discrimination and prejudice, on the other hand, create injustice.
If we make judgments about people based on overgeneralized stereotypes instead of their individual merits and actions, it leads to biased and unfair treatment. An equitable system evaluates each person as a unique human being. When we promote equality and kindness towards all people, we move closer to establishing justice and human rights for everyone.
11. Stealing Is Universally Wrong
Stealing is considered morally wrong across all cultures. Taking something that doesn’t belong to you without the owner’s permission violates the basic human right to property. Most societies have laws against theft to maintain order and protect citizens. Even young children can understand why stealing is unfair and hurts others.
12. Examples of Objective Moral Truths in Society
When it comes to society, there are certain moral truths we all know to be right or wrong. For example, don’t steal from others. Taking something that doesn’t belong to you is unfair and causes harm.
Challenges to Accepting Objective Morality
While the idea of objective moral truths seems straightforward, accepting them in today’s culture can be difficult. Many people believe that morality is relative and subjective, varying by individual or culture. However, if morality were truly relative, actions like murder or theft could be morally justified in some contexts. Most reasonable people agree that certain acts are always wrong.
Teaching Objective Morality to Children
Teaching your kids right from wrong starts at an early age. Explain that there are certain moral truths in this world that remain the same no matter what. For example:
- Treat others the way you want to be treated. The golden rule applies to people of all backgrounds.
- Don’t take what isn’t yours. Stealing is wrong, whether it’s a candy bar or a car.
- Be honest. Lying, cheating, and deceit are unethical. Tell the truth, even if it’s hard.
- Do your fair share. Don’t slack off or make excuses. Pull your weight and fulfill your responsibilities.
- Keep your promises. Follow through on your word and commitments. Do what you say you will do.
These moral truths stand the test of time and are some of the most important lessons you can share. Instilling these values at a young age will guide them to become morally upright individuals. Walk the walk yourself by modeling this behavior in your own life. Answer any questions they have and discuss examples of how to apply these truths in real-world situations. Together, you can shape children into caring, principled members of society.
Conclusion
So there you have it – eight examples of objective moral truths that most reasonable people can agree on. At the end of the day, there are certain universal principles of right and wrong that cross cultural and religious boundaries. While moral relativism might be an interesting philosophical debate, in reality, we all know that some acts like stealing, cheating, and violence are inherently wrong.
Understanding these objective moral truths helps create a more just, equitable, and livable society for all. Though moral rules are complex with many nuances, focusing on these basic universal principles can guide us to make better choices in our daily lives and relationships.
References
- How Morality Has the Objectivity that Matters—Without God by Ronald A. Lindsay
- Justice and Fairness by Manuel Velasquez, Claire Andre, Thomas Shanks, S.J., and Michael J. Meyer , Markkula Center for Applied Ethics
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