The future of morality theory and research

Abstract

Triune ethics meta-theory (TEM) identifi es ethical orientations that emerge from global brain states rooted in human brain evolution: self-protectionism, engagement, and imagination, respectively. TEM contributes to the movement to focus on human potential and well-being in the moral realm. A broad view of human genus history indicates that the undermining of human development has only occurred in recent millennia, intensifying with industrialization, which decimated social support for children and families. Developmental optimization has not long been a focus of research or advocacy. Western medicine too has focused on malady instead of health promotion, although patterns are changing. Although positive psychology has shifted psychology’s attention away from maladaptation toward fl ourishing, it has mostly focused on adults, though again a shift is under way.