The Moral Arc
"The Moral Arc" is a concept popularized by philosopher Michael Shermer in his book of the same name. It suggests that human morality has evolved over time, moving towards greater justice and equality. Shermer argues that this progression is driven by reason, science, and the expansion of empathy, leading societies to adopt more humane values.
The idea posits that, despite setbacks, history shows a trend toward moral improvement. Examples include the abolition of slavery, the advancement of civil rights, and the growing recognition of LGBTQ+ rights. This arc reflects humanity's capacity for moral growth and the pursuit of a more just world.