“Vertical morality is just how I describe what’s called ‘divine command theory’ in metaethics,” she said. Klinger Cain offered the example of the rather callous response to “Alligator Alcatraz” and the extremely punitive treatment of immigrant detainees from MAGA Christians. Advertisement“And once you’re primed for authoritarianism in religion, it’s easy to accept it in politics,” Klinger Cain said. “Vertical morality feels safe in chaotic times, when ‘figuring things out’ or ‘learning from past mistakes’ feels daunting,” Levings said. “Vertical morality can’t take into consideration modern advancements or needs, evidence of failures, new research and information and human progress in civilization,” she explained.

Source: Huffington Post December 22, 2025 07:41 UTC