Book abstract: Moral psychology studies the features of cognition, judgement, perception, and emotion that make human beings capable of moral action. Perspectives from feminist and race theory immensely enrich moral psychology. Writers who take these perspectives ask questions about mind, feeling, and action in contexts of social difference and unequal power and opportunity. These essays by a distinguished international cast of philosophers explore moral psychology as it connects to social life, scientific studies, and literature.

Chapter abstract: Most of us view ourselves as having moral commitments and expect that when given the opportunity, we will follow through on these commitments. But our moral expectations may have little to do with how we actually behave. I explore in this chapter some explanations for our failures to follow through and some possible solutions to bridge the gap between our moral commitments and our behaviors. I draw on recent empirical studies and argue that social contextual cues and mindless mental habits play significant roles in inhibiting real-time moral responsiveness. I conclude by identifying mindful ways to recognize and resist such obstacles.