Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question

Does morality create more suffering than it relieves?

Morality can cause suffering, and can also relieve suffering. But where exactly is the balance? Does morality create more suffering than it relieves, or relieve more suffering than it creates?

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Yes, morality creates more suffering than it relieves

Morality is irrational and can cause internal conflicts with one’s self, life would be much easier with less suffering without morals. The absence of morals can end in narcissism, which would mean not having the moral obligation to go out of your way for anything that doesn’t benefit you, and the ability to take advantage of others for a benefit to you.

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No, morality relieves more suffering than it creates.

Morality relieves more suffering because morality allows others to depend on you and vice versa, it makes everyone feel needed in some way, as well as the fact that for religious people, having strong morals can lead to a pleasant experience after they pass away. Strong morality can also lead to altruism, which can physiologically cause happiness.