[js1138]

I tried to start a discussion of the origin or authority for morality and had pretty much no takers.

I understand the claim to the authority of the Bible, but I see people every day who have extended their understanding of morality beyond what is required by the Bible.

For example, there is nothing in the Bible that says it is immoral to own another person as chattel or to beat the person to near death for failure to obey orders, and yet most people consider this to be immoral.

Similarly, there is no prohibition in the Bible of cruelty to animals, and yet most people cringe at the thought of hurting a dog or cat for pleasure.

[Sir Francis Dashwood]

I tried to start a discussion of the origin or authority for morality and had pretty much no takers.

Morality and all of those associated ideals are rooted entirely in the presupposition some higher power defines what is correct for human behavior...