Rationalize (v.) Attempt to explain or justify (one's own or another's behavior or attitude) with logical, plausible reasons, even if these are not true or appropriate.
I'm fond of the saying that humans are not rational animals, but animals that can rationalize. Unlike the lions that chase and eat the gazelles, we are able to modify our own behavior simply by choosing to do so. Whether we are aware of it or not, we each build up a set of rules by which we make decisions. Sometimes, we break these rules, but try to justify the transgression by explaining why it was okay after all. Maybe we turn to our friends for validation that we didn't really do anything wrong. We do this so that we can live with ourselves.
In any society, the individuals each have their own rules. However, by common agreement, sometimes these rules are expanded to the entire group. As long as everyone plays by the same set of rules, everyone should (in theory) get along. But how does each person develop their own set of rules in the first place? And how do you get all of these people to agree with one another?
While everyone can make up their own rules, or code of ethics, they may not necessarily share these publicly. A serial killer might somehow rationalize their actions, but they may be shy about sharing this with the general public. After all, what would the neighbors say? Most societies have worked out a common framework against which we can all make decisions.
So, what is Morality? What do we mean by it when we mention or discuss it?
Morality (n.) A particular system of values and principles of conduct, especially one held by a specified person or society.
There are basically two kinds of moral principles: (1) Self-deduced and (2) Handed down from on high. The first of these are the ones we make up ourselves. How we arrive at a moral compass that we are comfortable with is the result of the events that shaped our lives. The second of these are the moralities that are dictated by one religion or another. Regardless of the faith, these are the words of a god(dess)-like supreme being of some sort and they can never be questioned. Only obeyed. These rules may not make any sense, from time to time, but they must be accepted to be a card-carrying member of that particular religion.
Faith (n.) Firm belief in something for which there is no proof.
Pick a religion. Any religion. Obey its doctrines and have a denominational life. All you need is to have faith and believe in The Word. Your morality has been handed to you.
If you have trouble with that approach, and you have faith that a god(dess) does not exist, you need make up your own set of rules. But what should you choose? What 'do's and 'do not's should there be? Why have any rules at all? While it would seem obvious that lying, cheating, stealing, hurting, and killing are all bad things, not everyone agrees. There are no moral absolutes, merely suggestions and guidelines. What is sometimes called situational (or cafeteria) ethics. Pick and choose what suits you and get on with your life.
Without Faith, there are no wrong answers, only probabilities.
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