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Is there a distinction between morality and convention?

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  • Robert Sugden

    (University of East Anglia)

Abstract

In Humean analyses of the emergence and stability of moral rules, ideas of justice and reciprocity originate in non-moral, conventional solutions to conflicts of interest in human interaction. This theory seems contrary to an empirical claim made by some developmental psychologists: that, from early childhood, human beings perceive a distinction between (universal) ‘moral' and (relative) ‘conventional' rules, and that moral rules apply to matters of welfare, fairness and trust. I review the psychological literature and argue that, properly understood, it is compatible with a Humean analysis of morality.

Suggested Citation

  • Robert Sugden, 2008. "Is there a distinction between morality and convention?," Working Paper series, University of East Anglia, Centre for Behavioural and Experimental Social Science (CBESS) 08-01, School of Economics, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK..
    • Handle: RePEc:uea:wcbess:08-01
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Gui,Benedetto & Sugden,Robert (ed.), 2005. "Economics and Social Interaction," Cambridge Books, Cambridge University Press, number 9780521848848, January.
    2. Robert Sugden, 2005. "The Economics of Rights, Co-operation and Welfare," Palgrave Macmillan Books, Palgrave Macmillan, number 978-0-230-53679-1.
    3. Robert Sugden, 2005. "Rights, Co-operation and Welfare," Palgrave Macmillan Books, in: The Economics of Rights, Co-operation and Welfare, chapter 9, pages 170-182, Palgrave Macmillan.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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