Sam Harris: Science can answer moral questions

The speaker challenges the notion that science and human values are separate, arguing that values are factual claims about the well-being of conscious creatures. He introduces the concept of a moral landscape, where peaks and valleys represent different states of well-being. The talk emphasizes the need for a universal conception of human values and the role of science in understanding morality. The speaker critiques cultural practices that harm well-being and advocates for recognizing moral expertise.

What is the speaker's main argument regarding the relationship between science and human values?

• Science has no role in discussing human values.

• Science and human values are completely separate.

• Science can inform us about what we ought to value.

• Human values are purely subjective.

According to the speaker, why don't we have ethical obligations toward rocks?

• Rocks are not conscious.

• Rocks are not alive.

• Rocks cannot suffer.

• Rocks are not valuable.

What does the speaker suggest is necessary to understand human well-being?

• Economic systems

• Political arrangements

• The human brain

• Cultural traditions

What does the speaker mean by a 'moral landscape'?

• A spectrum of moral beliefs

• A map of different cultures

• A guide to ethical behavior

• A representation of well-being states

How does the speaker view the role of science in answering moral questions?

• Science can only answer questions about physical health.

• Science can help us understand the factors affecting well-being.

• Science can provide definitive answers to all moral questions.

• Science has no role in moral discussions.

What is the speaker's stance on cultural practices that harm human well-being?

• They should be respected as cultural differences.

• They should be evaluated based on their impact on well-being.

• They should be accepted without question.

• They are irrelevant to moral discussions.

What example does the speaker use to illustrate the need for universal human values?

• The game of chess

• Corporal punishment in schools

• The concept of physical health

• The practice of veiling women

According to the speaker, what is a common misconception about moral expertise?

• It is only relevant to scientific discussions.

• It is unnecessary in modern society.

• It is equivalent to religious beliefs.

• It does not exist in the moral sphere.

What does the speaker believe is necessary for addressing the most important questions in human life?

• Ignoring moral expertise

• Converging on universal answers

• Focusing on economic growth

• Respecting cultural differences

What does the speaker suggest about the future understanding of human minds?

• It will help us understand well-being better.

• It will lead to a one-dimensional world.

• It will have no impact on moral discussions.

• It will remain a mystery.