A philosophical path towards ethical realism in relation to scientific approaches.

This research program seeks to examine the relationship between scientific approaches to human nature and the philosophical debate about Ethical Realism.

Assuming that human agents are multidimensional beings—biological, psychological, and sociocultural—the project investigates how empirical data from disciplines such as biological anthropology, ethnography, evolutionary psychology, and moral psychology can contribute significantly to ethical theory.

Specifically, we will address three central questions:

1) Do people commonly perceive objectivity as an essential characteristic of moral judgments?

2) Is there a universal content relevant to moral discourse?

3) Can evolutionary-developmental (evo-devo) arguments substantiate or challenge the validity of Ethical Realism?

These inquiries seek to connect empirical findings with philosophical reflection, offering new perspectives on persistent debates about the nature and foundations of morality. 

The expected outcomes include six academic articles, an ongoing seminar for project participants, and the supervision of two doctoral dissertations and one master's thesis. Through this integrative approach, the program aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and clarify the potential role of scientific perspectives in ethical theory.