They may be illiterate.

That is true but it doesn't mean the person will actually know what is right and wrong.

But it is "written in their hearts." Why can't they just "read" their hearts and know what is right or wrong?

Thanks for the kind words.
When you have some time available you can read Dr. Bonnette's article on the subject: http://drbonnette.com/articles/11/evolution-micro-macro-articles-home-language-studies-part/

There's heaps of those studies available Rob.I've got loads of other things i need to attend to.Perhaps you should do some research on the subject?. I might stop in here,now and then. But so far,i don't feel like i'd be using my time wisely. For instance,you expect me to point out the studies for you?.And our discussion,thus far has,seemed to me to be revolving around aspects of sophistry.I feel like perhaps i'd be tasked with chasing the rabbit up and down warrens

But at least neither of us has reverted to nastiness.That's great.That's one thing ive come to like about Catholic.Thanks for that.It also helps me to act likewise

Have a great day/night. And all the best

Isn't empathy the essence of "love your neighbor as yourself"?

It may be the essence of it but it is not the foundation of it. I need to know what is good before I can love my neighbor as I should.

Also, the culture in which a person grows up, and socialization by the family, teachers, and neighbors is going to have a profound effect on what a person believes (and feels) is right or wrong.

That is true but it doesn't mean the person will actually know what is right and wrong. Following the first part of the great commandment is essential to being able to know how to follow the second part.

You'll have to show me an animal study that demonstrates that non-human animals are self-aware, then we can discuss the difference between their behavior and humans' behavior.

I definitely rely on prayer for healing, and I use natural means that are available also. It seems as though you have a stereotypical idea about Christians, hopefully you will keep dialoguing here and get to know some of the foundations of Catholicism and see how it compares to atheism.

Well you say humans are the only ones.ones.That's still based entirely on opinion.Science studies suggest different.More and more studies are concluding that the bible conclusion was wrong.I hazard to guess you'll accept medical science,I expect you wont rely on prayer alone, to heal yourself.Which make it look like believers will quite happily flip flop about, to suit themselves when need be

Anyway, all the best Rob

Ahh so this belief is base entirely on opinion alone.I'll move on.All the best to you anyway Rob

You say empathy is self centered.Can you explain reasons why?.

Considering how you yourself feel is part of the definition of empathy.

It seem to me the idea of salvation in an eternity,purposely set up for humans,seems like its fairly self centered.What makes human think they should survive forever?

That is not our decision, we have immaterial souls that will survive our material bodies.

The main distinction that I would make between humans and other animals is that humans are the only ones who are self-aware, we are able to contemplate our thoughts and actions.

Can you point out science study that help back up your conclusion that ability to define good and evil is written on our hearts?

no, does that prove that it's not true?

Do you disagree with neuroimaging suggestion its to do with aspect of our brain ?

no, the brain is certainly involved