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A moral sense is the feeling of whether an action is right or wrong, or the capacity to have such feelings. This sense develops in childhood, with children beginning to understand right from wrong and showing concern when they violate adult standards. This development is influenced by empathy, the ability to understand and share another's feelings.1234

While there are some common moral principles across cultures, such as concern for kin and reciprocity, and constraints on killing within a group, there are also vast differences in how these are applied. The study of ethics explores the justification of moral principles, acknowledging that variations in moral attitudes exist across societies. Moral psychology investigates moral judgment, motivation, and development, including how moral standards are formed and the role of emotions in morality.56

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