[[Books Index]] # The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt: Pre-Reading Discussion [[26-05-2024]] **General Themes** 1. **Moral Foundations Theory** • Haidt proposes that human moral reasoning is based on several innate foundations, similar to taste buds, which are shaped by culture and experience. 2. **Intuition vs. Reasoning** • The idea that moral judgments are primarily driven by intuitive processes, with reasoning often acting as a post-hoc justification. 3. **Groupishness and Tribalism** • Humans are naturally inclined to form groups and are influenced by group dynamics and loyalties. **Pre-Reading Questions** 1. **Personal Ethics** • What values or principles do you consider most important in your life? How do you think these values were shaped? 2. **Moral Intuitions** • Can you recall a time when your gut feeling about what was right or wrong differed from your logical reasoning? How did you resolve the conflict? 3. **Political and Religious Divides** • Have you noticed how different groups (political, religious, cultural) prioritize different values? How do you think understanding these differences can help in resolving conflicts? 4. **Group Influence** • How do the groups you belong to (e.g., family, workplace, social circles) influence your moral judgments and decisions? **Reflection** • Think about a recent situation where you had a strong moral reaction. What was it about that situation that triggered your response? How did you justify your reaction to yourself and others? • Consider the political or social issues that matter to you. How do you feel about people who hold opposing views? What moral foundations do you think they might be prioritizing? **Goals for Reading** • As you read, pay attention to how Haidt explains the origins and variations of moral values. • Reflect on how the concepts resonate with your experiences and observations. • Think about practical applications of these ideas in your personal and professional life. ---- # Part 1 - Intuitions Comes First, Strategic Reasoning Second - Where does morality come from? - The intuitive dog and its rational trial - Elephants Rules - Vote for me (here's why)