Seasonal Influence on Moral Judgments: Exploring Fluctuations in Ethics
As the seasons change, so do our moral judgments. Research has shown that certain values carry more weight in spring and autumn than in summer and winter. This phenomenon extends beyond just our emotional state, diet, and exercise habits—it also impacts our ethical beliefs.
A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA delves into how moral values can shift throughout the year. Researchers analyzed over 230,000 online survey responses from individuals in the U.S., as well as smaller groups in Canada and Australia. These surveys were based on moral foundations theory, a framework that categorizes human social behavior into five fundamental values.
According to lead author Ian Hohm, these values include loyalty, authority, and purity as “binding” values that promote group cohesion and conformity. Interestingly, these values, often associated with political conservatism, received weaker endorsements in summer and winter. The more extreme the seasonal weather differences, the more pronounced this effect became, particularly in summer. Care and fairness, on the other hand, which are considered “individualizing” values related to individual rights, showed no consistent seasonal pattern.
One possible explanation for these seasonal swings is anxiety. The study found that anxiety levels peak in spring and fall, which could be linked to feelings of vulnerability and threat. People who feel more susceptible to seasonal illnesses tend to exhibit more distrust, xenophobia, and a greater tendency to conform to majority opinions. This correlation between anxiety and moral judgments suggests that seasonal timing could impact various aspects of society, from jury decisions to election outcomes.
While these findings offer valuable insights into the seasonal effects on human psychology, it’s important to consider the limitations of the study. Howard University psychologist Ivory A. Toldson cautions against generalizing these results, as they are based on data from “WEIRD” populations. It’s essential to recognize the unique moral experiences of marginalized groups and avoid overlooking their perspectives in discussions about seasonal influences on ethics.
Georgetown University School of Medicine psychiatrist Norman Rosenthal, a pioneer in seasonal affective disorder research, emphasizes the connection between internal states and behavior. He suggests that our seasonal nature as humans plays a significant role in shaping our moral judgments and actions.
The study’s findings highlight the intricate relationship between seasonal changes and ethical beliefs. Understanding how these fluctuations impact our values can help us navigate the complexities of human behavior in different seasons. By recognizing the seasonal influences on moral judgments, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and others.