Common antidepressants can send our moral compasses spinning

By: Don Caldwell


What happens when we try to play God with our bodies?


Excerpts italicized:


Humans tend to flatter themselves by thinking they have the capacity to perform elaborate feats of moral reasoning, deeply considering possible consequences before arriving at an ethical decision. The reality is somewhat less flattering; a number of studies suggest we make moral decisions quickly and with a heavy reliance on our emotional response. Any reasoning that takes place tends to involve after-the-fact attempts to rationalize our decision, while everything from brain damage to neurotransmitter levels can alter our decisions in subtle and not-so-subtle ways. The latest findings in this area indicate that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the class of drugs popularized by Prozac, can alter moral decision making, but only when the individual taking the drugs has a personal, emotional stake in the process.


Between the two experiments, the authors conclude that elevated serotonin makes people less willing to make a personal, emotional commitment to a moral decision, such as punishing unfairness or pushing someone under a train. Detach the person a bit by removing their personal involvement—have them throw a switch instead of giving a push—and the impact of serotonin goes away.


To confirm this, the subjects were given a survey that measured their level of empathy; these results were then compared to performance on the tests. Those with the highest levels of empathy were more likely to be effected by serotonin, reinforcing the role of an emotional investment in the effect.


Although, in this case, the outcome seemed generally good, we have to remember that (depending on the drug) it could just as easily gone the other way. If we temporarily change who we are, does that help us when we are off the drugs? 


Do you really want to “flip a switch” and change your personality? Although more difficult, would it be more "worth-while" to come to terms with your problems on your own? (Of course, there will be exceptions where proper medical care will be the best course of action. And one should always follow the advice of their doctor.)


(ORIGINAL LINK) Common antidepressants can send our moral compasses spinning