jespah lara - morality

Gary E. Kessler identifies four ways in which the relationship between morality and religion can be considered. These are psychologically, sociologically, historically, and philosophically. The mode of philosphical interpretation to this issue claims that morality and religion can never be fully separated, even if someone thinks that it is (for example an atheist). The philosphical view of connecting religion and morality in particular draws my attention because I was raised in an atheist household. Presenlty, I have not decided on any specific religious view, but I no longer hold the absolute view that "God" doesn't exist. The question of whether or not an atheist can act moraly intrigues me. I believe that I have a good set of moral values comparable to anyone else that might have a religious background. I wasn't taught these morals in a religious setting, but instead simply throught my parents and through life experience. So I do believe that non-religious persons can act moraly. However, the question then becomes whether or not an atheist's morality is separate from religion, even though that person is not religious. They might be mistaken in believing that their moral values are completely secularly based. I, personally, cannot think of a way in which my moral values have received any influence from religion since I have had very little exposure to it in my life. I, however, do not possess true knowledge of the nature of morality, and cannot account for its presence within me. It simply is within me. So does that mean that it was placed there by "God"? Or does it mean that humans have that innate capacity regardless of a divine source? Time and life will perhaps bring me closer to an answer.