Moral development and behaviour under the spotlight of the neurobiological sciences

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
With the aid of techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging, neuroscience is providing a new perspective on human behaviour. Many areas of psychology have recognised and embraced the new technologies, methodologies and relevant findings. But how do the tools of neuroscience affect the fields of moral development and moral education? This paper reviews neuroscience research germane to moral development using as an organisational framework Rest's Four Component Model of moral functioning, which proposes that moral behaviour requires moral sensitivity, moral judgement, moral motivation/focus and moral action skills. Issues such as the importance of early brain development and attachment are addressed. The authors conclude with a brief description of an integrative theory, Triune Ethics Theory, which provides an example of how moral development and neuroscience can be integrated.