Being Inherently Good Essay: Being Inherently Good Or Evil

The question of whether people are naturally good or evil has been debated for ages. Thinkers, religious leaders, and even psychologists have all weighed in on whether we're born good or bad. In this essay, I want to argue that humans are basically good at heart, using different theories and evidence to back up my point.

Inborn Morality vs. Blank Slate

A lot of folks believe that we're born as blank slates, and our experiences shape our morals. But there's also the idea that we have an inborn sense of right and wrong. One popular theory here is moral nativism. This theory says we're born with a natural sense of morality that guides us, no matter what we encounter in life.

Developmental Psychology

Studies in developmental psychology give some weight to the idea that we're inherently good. Research shows that babies as young as six months old prefer kind and helpful characters. This suggests they already have some understanding of moral behavior, pointing to an innate goodness from a very young age.

Philosophical Perspectives

Philosophers back this idea up too. Jean-Jacques Rousseau, for example, talked about the "noble savage," saying humans are naturally good but get corrupted by society. This idea goes against the notion that we're born evil, suggesting instead that goodness is a key part of our nature.

Arguments for Inherent Evil

Of course, there are arguments for the opposite view—that people are inherently evil. Some religious beliefs, like the concept of original sin, claim we're born sinful and need redemption. Plus, history is full of wars, genocides, and cruelty, leading some to think humans are naturally bad.

While these arguments can't be ignored, the evidence for inherent goodness is pretty strong. If humans are inherently good, it changes how we think about moral behavior and the possibility of positive change in society. Recognizing our innate goodness could lead to more compassion and empathy in addressing social issues and conflicts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the debate about whether humans are inherently good or evil is complicated. There are strong points on both sides, but the evidence for inherent goodness is pretty convincing. Psychological studies, philosophical ideas, and historical views all suggest humans might be naturally good. Understanding this can have a big impact on how we deal with moral behavior and societal problems. In the end, the question of inherent goodness is crucial for understanding human nature and morality.