Moral Issues in Creativity

Abstract

Despite the subjectivity of the ideas of good and evil, a common core of moral principles that transcend cultures and eras exists. Broadly stated, these involve promoting the common good instead of narrow self-interest. Creativity often challenge some of these principles and almost always involves disadvantage or loss for somebody. Thus, moral creativity not only requires doing good, but also involves issues such as to whom good and harm are done, what kind of good and harm, and how much. Since the effects of creativity are often unforeseeable, the intentions behind it must also be considered. A focus on the common good is not an innate element of human values, but is acquired. Fortunately it can be taught.