The Source of Moral Values: Beyond Belief in a Higher Power

It is often argued that atheists cannot have moral values without believing in a higher power. This assertion is not only misleading but also shortsighted. This article aims to elucidate the concept of moral values and demonstrate that everyone, regardless of religious or agnostic beliefs, can and does adhere to ethical standards.

Morality and Faith: Separating the Two

When critics claim that atheists cannot have moral values, they are conflating morality with faith. Morality is fundamentally about the principles and values we use to guide our behavior and interactions with others. Faith, on the other hand, is the belief in a higher power or spiritual entity. While faith can shape one's moral values, it is not a prerequisite for having them. In essence, everyone on the planet shares a set of moral principles, even if they choose not to base these on a particular faith.

The Universality of Moral Values

Let us explore the universality of moral values. John Stuart Mill, the renowned British philosopher, stated, 'We do not live only by bread. We need moral values to guide us in life.' These values are fundamental to human existence and encompass a range of virtues such as kindness, justice, and empathy. They are not exclusive to any single religion or belief system.

Personal Ethics and Religious Influence

For those who are religious, faith can provide a framework for moral values. However, even without a spiritual framework, individuals can still establish and adhere to a set of ethical standards. This is evident in many non-religious contexts, such as within professions, educational institutions, and through ethical guidance provided by secular communities.

An Example from Personal Experience

I am an Registered Nurse (RN) who claims no religious beliefs. My morality comes from a combination of personal values and ethical principles. I follow the Hippocratic Oath, which advises to 'First do no harm,' a principle that is widely recognized, regardless of one's religion. I also adhere to the Golden Rule, which, as far back as -500 BCE, has been a guiding principle for ethical conduct among various cultures and societies.

Role as a Nurse and Responsibility

My primary role as a nurse is to provide care and help others. I do not imply that my personal opinions should dictate the actions of others. I believe in the principle of respect for autonomy—the right of individuals to make informed choices regarding their own bodies and lives. In my work, I aim to do good without considering whether it will bring me personal fame or gratitude. My motivation to help others comes from a sense of duty, not from any divine commandment.

The Value of Human Reflection and Common Consent

When someone criticizes atheists, they are setting a high bar that requires believers to maintain a standard they might not attain themselves. It is important to note that many religious groups have conflicting standards, especially those derived from the Old Testament, such as the laws of Exodus or Leviticus, which include prejudiced norms of the Bronze Age. Similarly, atheists can build their moral framework based on the consensus of human reflection and common consent, rather than divine command.

Conclusion

In conclusion, moral values are universal and can be upheld by individuals regardless of whether they believe in a higher power. This reaffirms the importance of adhering to ethical standards based on personal values and common consent, irrespective of religious beliefs or lack thereof.