Filogénesis y ontogénesis de la moral

The study of morals, ethics and justice has been of interest along the history of human culture. Philosophers, psychologists, politicians, lawyers and other thinkers, have worked in topics such as what is right and wrong, good or evil, justice, solidarity, cooperation, harmony among persons and groups. This article presents an analysis of theories and scientific findings about the origins of morality in non- human species, and in human beings. It places special emphasis on recent findings from the scientific perspective. The existence of moral behaviors in non- human primates is presented, particularly in apes, dolphins, dogs, crowns, and other species. In the case of human development the most relevant scientific findings are analyzed. It is pointed out that morality in our species is more complex that morals in non- human animals, but it is based on similar roots. These research findings help to understand the concept of “human nature” from a new perspective.