Morality

     Many people believe that God is the author of morality and guides humanity toward good and away from sin.  His moral laws, the shall and shall nots, are proclaimed in the Bible which also records the lives of the righteous.  Believers in spiritual guidance feel that without God, humanity would lead sinful and selfish lives with no true regard for each other.  Debauchery, chaos, and calamity would result.
     Some people believe that morality can exist without God.  As human beings became civilized, they agreed upon acceptable and unacceptable behaviors that would ensure the survival of the individual and the tribe.  Logic guided their lawmaking.
     Neither religious nor non-religious philosophies guarantee moral behavior.   Even with the promise of rewards and the threat of punishments, people will sometimes choose immorality over morality.  New laws can be added and old ones can be redesigned; however, some areas of behavior should be left up to the individual.  Conscience and self control will increase morality. 
     Deciding on the laws in a democracy is difficult because a variety of opinions are considered.  Cooperation and compromise are beneficial.  Conflicts can arise when people believe that law must be based on their religion.  Governments need to make and enforce laws while guaranteeing freedom and human rights.  Individuals need to abide by the laws and take on the responsibility of making decisions that will benefit themselves as well as the group.  These are the steps toward morality.