Immoral-like Behavior in Animals

Abstract

Although there are numerous examples of moral-like behavior in animals, examination of the darker side of nature reveals creatures capable of deceit, dishonesty, violence and killing. Rape, cannibalism, infanticide, deception, within species killing, sexual intrigue, adultery, lethal violence, and wasteful predation have also been observed. Evolution appears responsible for both moral and despicable behavior. Natural selection is blind to our ordinary understanding of morality.

Thomas Henry Huxley noted the “essential evil of the world” and found it difficult to reconcile that with sound ethical principles. He believed man should use reason and intelligence and refuse to be instruments of the evolutionary process. Evolution has provided the capacity to identify, protect and preserve important values; this capacity makes both moral and immoral behaviors possible. Hopefully, human reason will select moral values that counteract the immorality of nature.