Meaning: The quote "Morality, as has often been pointed out, is antecedent to religion - it even exists in a rudimentary form among animals" by Herbert Read, a poet and art critic, touches on the fundamental relationship between morality and religion. This quote suggests that morality is a concept that predates organized religion and is not exclusive to human beings. It implies that morality is a fundamental aspect of existence that transcends religious beliefs and is even observable in the behavior of animals.

Herbert Read's assertion that morality is antecedent to religion aligns with various philosophical and anthropological perspectives. Some philosophers argue that morality is rooted in human nature and societal interactions, independent of religious doctrines. This viewpoint suggests that ethical principles and moral values are inherent to human consciousness and social relationships, regardless of religious beliefs or affiliations. Additionally, anthropological studies have highlighted the presence of moral behavior and cooperative norms in non-human animals, indicating that elements of morality can be observed in the natural world, as Read suggests.

The idea that morality exists in a rudimentary form among animals reflects the concept of innate or instinctual moral behavior. Ethologists and behavioral scientists have documented instances of altruism, empathy, and cooperative behaviors in various animal species. These observations suggest that certain moral tendencies, such as caring for offspring, forming social bonds, and displaying empathy, can be found in the behavior of animals. Read's reference to the presence of rudimentary morality in animals reinforces the notion that moral principles are not exclusive to human beings and may have evolutionary origins.

From a religious perspective, Read's statement challenges the notion that morality is solely derived from religious teachings or doctrines. While many religious traditions provide ethical guidelines and moral codes, Read's assertion implies that the concept of morality transcends specific religious beliefs and is a fundamental aspect of human existence. This perspective underscores the idea that moral behavior can be understood and examined independently of religious frameworks, acknowledging the diverse sources and expressions of morality across different cultures and belief systems.

In contemporary ethical discourse, the relationship between morality and religion remains a topic of scholarly debate. While some argue that religious teachings are the foundation of moral values, others emphasize the secular and humanistic foundations of morality. Herbert Read's quote contributes to this ongoing dialogue by highlighting the preexisting nature of morality and its potential manifestation in non-human beings. By acknowledging the existence of morality outside of religious contexts and its presence in the natural world, Read's perspective prompts reflection on the universal and intrinsic aspects of moral principles.

In conclusion, Herbert Read's quote serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between morality, religion, and the natural world. By asserting that morality predates religion and exists in a rudimentary form among animals, Read challenges traditional assumptions about the origins and nature of moral principles. His perspective invites contemplation of the universal and foundational aspects of morality, transcending religious boundaries and encompassing the broader spectrum of human and non-human existence. Whether through philosophical, anthropological, or religious lenses, Read's quote sparks inquiry into the fundamental nature of morality and its profound implications for human understanding and ethical inquiry.