What are the moral consequences of Homo sapiens being just another animal species? If we accept this somewhat uncontroversial assumption, from a scientific viewpoint at least, then we must consider why humans would have a moral sense in the first place? It is highly unlikely that this feature has evolved to enable humanity to decipher the ultimate meaning of the universe, to distinguish between universally right and wrong behaviour, to reward the good and punish evildoers; yet moral debate, and accordingly the justifications for societies and political orders built upon these moral foundations, frequently takes this as its starting point. On the contrary, one might reasonably suspect the truth to be much less supernatural. The ‘culture wars’ in recent decades have been characterised by a profound and widening disagreement over public morals and values, resulting in increased political polarisation and conflict. This kind of discord should not surprise us, however, as debates over social values and the meaning of right and wrong have been a persistent feature of human civilisation throughout history. So why does this happen? What is truly at stake when a society engages in political and moral debates? What does it all mean? These fundamental questions are examined in this exciting new work from author Stephen MacSuibhne. Politics and Morality investigates the sources of human morality, how moral systems are constructed, and how this relates to political debate. The analysis integrates a wide range of theories and ideas to form an original, provocative, and compelling argument, which opens the door to a profound exploration of human nature, ethics, and political life. Yet, the purpose of this study is not to seek specific answers to our philosophical questions, but to reset the terms of political dialogue, to develop better methods for analysing present and historical issues, and to find a new way to approach political conversations. The impact of these findings on political discourse could potentially be both radical and momentous. Politics and Morality is an engaging and thought-provoking read in these troubled and dangerous times.