Paul's letter to the Romans, chapter 2 (nore especially verse 15 where Paul says that people who have NOT been taught the moral Law of God still instinctively know the basics of the moral Law of God)
14. For when Gentiles who do not have the Law do instinctively the things of the Law, these, not having the Law, are a law to themselves, 15. in that they show the work of the Law written in their hearts, their conscience bearing witness and their thoughts alternately accusing or else defending them, 16. on the day when, according to my gospel, God will judge the secrets of men through Christ Jesus.
New American Standard Version
That's exactly what I was thinking when I read the NYT article. As a Catholic, I have been taught since childhood that God reveals His law both through the "Book of Nature" (His creation) and the Book of Scripture, and that his Law is actually built into the structure of reality, and is knowable via our human nature ("Natural Law" has been a major theme in Catholic philosophy for centuries.)
I was also taught that human beings are flawed (not "totally depraved," but flawed), because of a catastrophic error committed very near the beginning of the human race, the consequences of which are transmitted to every succeeding generation.
I am not clear whether that means the consequences are "genetic," (yes? no?) but among the the practical consequences are that our intellects are darkened and our instincts somewhat deranged and hard for us to consciously control.
That defect in our nature explains why we have to receive ongoing supernatural assistance in order to get back on track morally. We do need to learn from God. And we do need to teach our children.
St. Paul says in Romans 12:2---
"Be not conformed to this world: but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may know what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God."