Part VII: Christianity and morality

Chapter 20: Natural Law and Divine Law

D'Souza starts off by arguing that sociological and historical evidence for a universal morality. Atheists accept that there appears to be normative values that cross cultures. Furthermore, atheists are willing to admit that certain acts are truly evil. When it comes to morality, they explain it in terms of kin selection and reciprocal helping. Kin selection is the choosing by genes on which host to perserve. This is why a woman may risk her life to save her children or a father may choose the life of his relatives over strangers in a zero sum game. Reciprocal helping is the idea that if I am kind to you, then you will be kind to me. While there ideas appear to explain some moral behavior there are instances of higher altruism, or kindness without apparent benefit. For instance, what are we to make of the young person who gives up their seat for the elderly?

C.S. Lewis builds an argument that says morals are not merely sentiments. Take for instance coming across a drowning man. Even if you are a poor swimmer you will have two competing urges. The cost/benefits of social psychology at play. However, above and beyond these is a sense of oughtness. Regardless of the cost/benefits, we feel as if something should be done. Thus, D'Souza ends the absolute morality chapter by showing that morality is something universal, it is not wholly explained by evolution, and it is a sensation unique from sentiments.