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Moreover, our moral responses often depend on specific social and emotional contexts—what we deem acceptable for close friends versus strangers or public figures. For instance, we might forgive adultery if committed by a friend in a difficult marriage, yet judge a stranger harshly for the same act. This demonstrates our innate tendency to weigh social distance and relationship closeness in moral judgments.
Moral Biases and Evolutionary Roots
From an evolutionary perspective, morality developed chiefly as a mechanism for cooperation and social cohesion. Early human societies relied on shared norms and laws to coordinate behaviors, ensuring survival and mutual support. These moral codes were shaped by the practical necessity of navigating social relationships within tight-knit groups.