By Dr. Anthony Policastro

There are times when our minds create conflicts between two principles. For example, we might want to be charitable. However, we also know that some charitable requests are fake. This leads to a dilemma we need to solve.

We see similar dilemmas arise when it comes to moral questions. There are two general forms of morality related to our viewpoint of the afterlife.

One of these is called vertical morality. It is based on an interaction with a supreme being. Individuals want to have a personal interaction. Their beliefs are based upon obedience. They are based upon tradition. They are based upon scriptural passages. 

It can be summed up in an attitude that suggests: “I must do it because God commands it.” It sets priorities on rules. Those rules come from a higher being. That is what makes it a “vertical” format.

The other form of morality is called horizontal morality. It focuses on doing good through relationships with others. Beliefs are based upon relationships. They are based on empathy. They are based on fairness. They are based on human connection.

It can be summed up in an attitude that suggests: “I must help my neighbor because we are all human and therefore connected.” The rules are related to those around us. That is what makes it “horizontal”.

For most people, the two types of morality peacefully coexist. However, that is not always the case.

An example of this is when a vertical morality suggests one mode of action and a horizontal morality suggests another. An example of this might be found in a cult. The cult leader will demand unbridled loyalty. But that leader may look down on a group of individuals as outsiders. This leads an individual with horizontal morality feeling conflicted in that situation.

Another example occurs when a situation presents with more than one factor. Someone may be doing what they see as proper in their vertical morality. However, a situation may arise where they have to stop what they are doing. They may need to make a decision to do something completely different based upon circumstances. For example, they may be on their way to a religious service but come upon the scene of an accident where their help is needed. That leads to internal conflict.

One of the more common conflicts is that those with vertical morality tend to see things as right or wrong. For them, most situations fit one of the two categories. Unfortunately, there are mitigating circumstances to many situations. That leads to a conflict as the individual might have to react differently than expected. The situation does not neatly fit into either category. 

The way to avoid conflict is the recognition that there is a role for both vertical and horizontal morality. Those who try one or the other exclusively are doomed to be conflicted repeatedly.

Conflict can lead to constructive conclusions. However, it is more likely lead to an internal struggle that is not helpful to mental health.