The dark side of morality

New session of the "Paris IAS Ideas" talk series, with the participation of Jean Decety, University of Chicago / Paris IAS Fellow.

The "Paris IAS Ideas" online talk series features short and stimulating presentations from fellows of the Paris Institute for Advanced Study, marking the beginning of 1-month writing residencies.

Register via the form at the bottom of the page to receive the connection link.

Presentation

Moral conviction—the belief that one’s attitude reflects core social values—motivates behaviors ranging from activism to intolerance. Moralized attitudes are experienced as universal and objectively true facts and decrease tolerance of differing opinions, which leads to an increased willingness to accept violent solutions to conflicts. The violent parties behind these acts believe that they are fighting for the ‘right reasons’ or guided by virtuous social values, despite the catastrophic effects of their actions.

Replay