Is there such a thing as moral progress?
We are familiar with the saying, “the arc of the moral universe is long but it bends toward justice” made famous by Martin Luther King Jr. But is this true? Many argue history shows no clear evidence for moral progress. They say that human nature is the same as it has always been, so moral progress is impossible.
While I agree that it appears human nature is the same as it has always been, I disagree that there is no evidence for moral progress over the course of history. I would point to a greater emphasis on human rights, abolition of slavery in most of the world, greater equality for women, more humane treatment of prisoners, greater access to education, and greater respect and treatment for animals and nature as some markers of moral progress.
This is not to say moral progress happens on a constant or straight trajectory. History has shown that progress has been slow and interspersed with periods of stagnation and even regression.
Can we credit religion for moral progress?
Yes and no. While nearly every religion emphasizes the importance of doing good and avoiding evil, some religious doctrines perpetuate unjust treatment of women and “outsiders.”
On the other hand, it is hard to overemphasize the impact the Judeo-Christian tradition has had on the world. The teaching that humans are created in the image of God is the foundation of inalienable human rights (Natural Law).
Some who point to historical abuses committed in the name of a god argue all moral progress is the result of secular Enlightenment thinking; however, this ignores the progress made before the Enlightenment and the fact that the concept of natural rights and freedoms, which we associate with the Enlightenment, is rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition.
In summary, I think it is right to speak of moral progress and to say religion is primarily responsible for this progress, but what about all of those throughout history who were treated unjustly (and who continue to be treated unjustly)? Is it just tough luck that the slow “[bend] toward justice” excluded so many?
In the Old Testament book of Job, we read Job’s lament in which he states that justice for the suffering and oppressed is only realized in the grave; in the New Testament, however, we are presented with a new gospel: One day graves will be opened and those who were righteous will be resurrected to eternal life. The gospel of Jesus Christ says the grave is no longer the best that the oppressed can hope for.
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Related Posts:
Paul’s Romans 1 & 2 Argument
Hard-Wired Conscience
Muddling Through the Universe 