Introduction to Moral Psychology

Why do we make moral choices, and what happens in our minds when we fail to live up to our own standards? This text-based course bridges the gap between classic philosophical theories of ethics and modern scientific discoveries about how the human brain actually works. You will learn how to analyze human behavior through a dual lens, combining rigorous philosophical inquiry with empirical insights from psychology and neuroscience. Starting with foundational definitions of agency and motivation, you will explore the complex mechanics of decision-making, willpower, and social emotions. What you'll learn: Understand the core concepts of moral motivation, belief, and desire; Analyze the psychological mechanisms of empathy, sympathy, and altruism; Examine the breakdown of agency through weakness of will, addiction, and self-deception; Explore modern scientific perspectives on free will, moral responsibility, and character development; Apply ethical frameworks to real-world behavioral challenges and cognitive biases. The course begins with an introduction to key philosophical terms and psychological methodologies, progressing systematically through individual agency, social emotions, and the limits of self-control. This course is designed specifically for beginners, requiring no prior background in philosophy, psychology, or neuroscience. Dive into the fascinating study of the moral mind today.