Final answer:
Society's role in relation to morality is fundamental, as it shapes moral norms that are enforced by communal consensus. While different societies have their own distinct moral rules, they share similarities in their purpose of facilitating community functionality. Morality is, therefore, not just a social phenomenon but also tied to the psychological and emotional aspects of being human.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to a lecture, society plays a pivotal role in shaping morality. Society contributes to making humans what they are and establishes the framework within which moral norms exist. As humans are inherently social beings, survival and coexistence in communities necessitate a certain code of behavior that is often dictated by societal norms.
Moral norms within a society are enforced by communal consensus and the behavior of its members. When individuals adhere to societal expectations and moral rules, such as being honest or helping others, they are often met with praise, while transgression results in social censure or disapproval. This form of community oversight serves a similar purpose to that of laws, but is reinforced through social interaction rather than formal legal systems.
Moreover, while different societies and cultures may have unique rules and moral ideas, which is indicative of moral relativism, there are significant similarities and a commonality in the purposes served by these moral codes. These codes are essential for the functionality of human communities and are a testament to the universal presence of a moral sense among different societies.
Ultimately, while morality is often associated with religion, research suggests that it is also deeply connected to the physical structures and functioning of the brain, as well as cultural inheritances. As philosopher David Hume argued, morality is related to human sentiments and is not directly derivable from facts alone, highlighting the relation between morality, emotions, and societal interaction.