TED: The long reach of reason | Steven Pinker and Rebecca Newberger Goldstein

The video explores the role of reason in moral progress, debating its importance against empathy and emotions. Historical examples illustrate how reason has driven social change, expanding rights and reducing violence. The discussion highlights contemporary issues that may be viewed as immoral in the future, emphasizing reason's potential to continue guiding moral development.

What is one reason given for the decline of reason in popular culture?

• The rise of scientific creationism

• Increased reliance on technology

• The popularity of psychic hotlines

• A resurgence of religious fundamentalism

According to the discussion, what is a potential downside of reason?

• It can be used to justify harmful actions

• It may result in emotional detachment

• It can lead to overconfidence

• It often leads to indecisiveness

How has the expansion of literacy and travel affected human empathy?

• It has limited empathy to local communities

• It has expanded empathy to include broader groups

• It has made empathy less important

• It has caused empathy to become more selective

What is one criticism of empathy as a tool for moral progress?

• It is not widely understood

• It is biased towards familiar individuals

• It is too focused on logical reasoning

• It is too easily manipulated

What role does reason play in moral progress according to the transcript?

• Reason provides the foundation for emotional appeals

• Reason helps to identify logical inconsistencies in practices

• Reason is often ignored in moral discussions

• Reason is less effective than empathy in driving change

Which historical figure is mentioned as having argued against cruel punishments?

• Jeremy Bentham

• Sebastian Castellio

• John Locke

• Cesare Beccaria

What is a key factor that allows reason to influence moral progress?

• The ability to appeal to emotions

• The capacity to identify contradictions

• The reliance on historical precedents

• The support from religious institutions

Which movement is cited as being inspired by the Civil Rights Movement?

• The labor rights movement

• The anti-war movement

• The animal rights movement

• The environmental movement

What is one practice mentioned that future generations might find objectionable?

• The use of nuclear weapons

• The reliance on fossil fuels

• The practice of public hangings

• The enforcement of strict dress codes

What is the main argument for reason being a 'better angel'?

• Reason is easier to teach than empathy

• Reason is more reliable than emotions

• Reason is universally accepted

• Reason has historically led to moral advancements