We also share their impact, how they develop, and their possible pitfalls.

But first, let’s look at how moral principles came about.

Later, moral principles were studied by philosophers like John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Immanuel Kant.

Cut out hearts with different moral principles written on them

Jennifer A. Smith / Getty Images

In the field of psychology, moral principles have been studied in the context of moral development.

For example, psychologistLawrence Kohlberg studied moral developmentin boys from different cultures.

As an example, honesty is considered a moral principle because it keeps relationships strong.

Types of Moral Principles

There are two types of moral principles: absolute and relative.

Below are some examples.

People who follow moral principles also tend to have a better quality of life than those who don’t.

If you are just starting on your moral journey, you might consider exploring morals in various philosophical texts.

Below are some examples of how moral principles may not always guide you toward the best course of action.

First, it’s possible tomake judgments about othersbased on your personal values and not theirs.

Finally, sometimes people can use moral principles tojustify bad behaviorlike stealing or hurting others in some way.

Takeaways

In general, moral principles are beneficial both to society and the individual person.

Also, weigh the cost of adhering to your morals in terms of its impact on other individuals.

Aim to do right by you and by others so everybody wins.

In:Ancient Greece and China Compared.

Park S.Cultural relativism vs. cultural absolutism.Cultura.

2021;161(6):664-682. doi:10.1080/00224545.2020.1860882