Tuesday, March 26, 2024
Year : 2, Issue : 13
by Rubaiya Hassan
Oxford researcher Oliver Scott Curry, renowned for his expertise in anthropology, recently spearheaded a groundbreaking study aimed at unraveling the enigmatic nature of human morality. In a comprehensive exploration, Curry and his team meticulously scrutinized ethnographic accounts of ethics from 60 diverse societies, drawing from over 600 sources, to discern the underlying fabric of moral principles.
Universal Moral Values: A Revelation
The study yielded a profound revelation – the existence of seven universal values or moral rules that transcend cultural boundaries and societal norms. These values, identified as helping your family, helping your group, returning favors, being brave, deferring to superiors, dividing resources fairly, and respecting others’ property, are postulated by Curry to be universal due to their pivotal role in fostering cooperation, which he deems as the fundamental purpose of morality.
Nuanced Manifestation and Prioritization of Values
While these values are deemed universal, Curry astutely observes that their expression and prioritization can diverge significantly across different societies, echoing the intricate tapestry of human morality. This understanding resonates with discussions on value conflicts, shedding light on the tensions and contradictions that arise when individuals are compelled to navigate conflicting values, stemming from diverse frames of reference.
Navigating Value Conflicts: A Personal Reflection
To exemplify the intricate interplay of moral values, let’s delve into the values of “helping our group” and “returning favors,” both of which hold profound significance in personal lives. “Helping our group” entails actions that contribute to the collective wellbeing of the community or group one belongs to, ranging from active participation in community service to fostering neighborhood initiatives. Conversely, “returning favors” underscores the significance of reciprocating kindness, fostering a cycle of goodwill through expressions of gratitude and reciprocal assistance.
Real-life Dilemma: Balancing Conflicting Values
A tangible illustration arises from personal experience within the SEEK (Search for Education, Elevation, and Knowledge) program, where the dilemma of allocating priorities between advocating for crucial funding and reciprocating a friend’s support in academic endeavors emerged. This poignant scenario encapsulates the intricate nature of value conflicts, urging individuals to navigate these complexities with empathy and discernment.
In essence, Curry’s pioneering study not only unveils the universal underpinnings of morality but also underscores the intricate complexities arising from the divergence in prioritization and manifestation of moral values across societies. It beckons individuals to approach value conflicts with a nuanced understanding, encapsulating the multifaceted nature of human morality.
Author is a student of Queens College, City University of New York
