Understanding why using a foreign language affects our moral judgments

What is it about?

Past research has shown that using a foreign language leads to greater endorsement of utilitarian actions such as sacrificing one life to save many. Here, we explore whether this is due to an increase in deliberate, cost-benefit analysis or rather a decrease in the emotional aversion to violating taboos such as those against causing harm. We find that using a foreign language affects moral judgment not by making people think more, but by making them feel less.

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Why is it important?

Millions of individuals utilize a foreign language on a daily basis; foreign-born doctors make medical decisions, naturalized citizens serve on juries, and international businesses negotiate deals. As such, it's important to better understand the cognitive and behavioral impact of using a non-native language. The present work sheds some light on the processes that lead to often dramatic differences in moral judgment when using a native versus foreign tongue.