Evolutionary Morality Lab (retired)
We are a transdisciplinary lab–integrating psychology, neuroscience, anthropology, clinical and evolutionary systems sciences as well as philosophy. We are interested in optimizing human development, understanding what and how human fulfillment develops and is reached.
THE NEST. We study, in children and adults, how the provision of humanity’s evolved nest (or its lack of provision) influences wellbeing, sociality and morality.
With evolved nest provision, basic needs are met and humans can attain their moral heritages of flexible relational attunement (ethical engagement) and communal imagination.
When the species-typical nest is not provided, neurobiological system functioning is underdeveloped (e.g., stress response, vagus nerve, neurotransmitters, immune system) and individuals become more self-centered (unless they undergo therapy of some sort) and develop self-protectionist ethics such as social opposition, social withdrawal, vicious imagination or detached imagination.
Pictured above are the lab members from Spring 2015. Handsome group!
Our Current Projects:
- Evolved Nest experiences in childhood, neurobiology, wellbeing, and morality
- Ecological attachment and Indigenous Wisdom
- Basic psychosocial needs
Interested in joining our lab?
Email us:
Mary Tarsha, mtarsha@nd.edu
Dr. Darcia Narvaez, dnarvaez@nd.edu
