Breaking shared norms, the moral commitment problem, and moral emotions: An evolutionary analysis

AbstractThis study presents an evolutionary-inspired model to explain moral commitment and cooperation. It investigates how individuals can overcome self-interested tendencies through moral emotions and personal moral norms. Key emotions such as moral indignation and anticipated guilt, as well as precursors like empathy and altruism, are examined for their role in promoting cooperative behavior. The model applies an evolutionary lens to various norm violations—from minor theft to punishing free riders—highlighting how specific moral emotions shape decisions about rule-breaking. By integrating evolutionary theory with social science insights, this approach provides both a conceptual framework and practical tools for empirical research on moral decision-making. The findings have implications for understanding antisocial behavior, enhancing cooperation, and guiding future research and crime prevention strategies.