[exmarine]

As you noted, our sense of morality is self-evident, & that all mankind has possessed it is obvious from the presence of the 'golden rule' in all societies, regardless of religion.

Normally, I would not respond to you but I will make an exception in this case since you are so wrong. The golden rule does not exist in all societies. It is strictly Christian. YOu might say, "Oh yeah, Confucius said the same thing!" And I will say, "Wrong!" Confucius said that men should NOT do unto others what they DO NOT want done to them. This is a NEGATIVE golden rule and requires NO ACTION on our part. Jesus on the other hand, said, "DO UNTO OTHERS..." This requires loving action. Now, please quote the writer (pre-Christian) who stated the golden rule in the correct context.

[js1138]

Now, please quote the writer (pre-Christian) who stated the golden rule in the correct context.

"Try your best to treat others as you would wish to be treated yourself, and you will find that this is the shortest way to benevolence."
Confucianism. Mencius VII.A.4

"A man should wander about treating all creatures as he himself would be treated. "
Jainism. Sutrakritanga 1.11.33

[tpaine]

our sense of morality is self-evident, & that all mankind has possessed it is obvious from the presence of the 'golden rule' in all societies, regardless of religion. We all learn this golden rule at our mothers breast, in the form of 'don't bite the tit that feeds you'.

The golden rule does not exist in all societies. It is strictly Christian.

Do a google search, and I am sure you will find versions of the golden rule from virtually every society that has had a recorded philosophy. -- I once saw a list here on FR of close to a hundred such examples.