While most people know how morals work, they still tend to choose self-benefiting options.
New research from the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience explores how the brain handles morally conflicting choices during learning.
Let's find out more.
A study on human nature and complicated choices
The study found that individuals who prioritize their own gain over others' well-being were able to understand potential negative impacts, but still chose self-benefit.
Participants made choices between symbols associated with self-gain or preventing harm to others.
Surprisingly, those prioritizing self-gain remained aware of the pain they caused others, challenging the idea that they conveniently ignore harm.
The results
The study revealed participants adapted choices when one moral dilemma aspect was removed.
This suggests complex moral learning where understanding harm coexists with value-based decision-making.
The research sheds light on how the brain manages conflicting moral choices and could provide insights into atypical behaviors in certain populations.
