Morality and Social Responsibility - Assignment Example

ical Theories of Morality ICAL THEORIES OF MORALITY Morality is a question that a lot of philosophers and thinkers have differed throughout history. It is difficult to come up with a definition that may not face criticism from disagreeing forces. However, from the early definitions it can be shown that each way of thinking has a practical support (Scarlet & Arthur, 2011).Aristotle argues that an individual’s character plays a great role in determining his moral responsibility. A person must be able to identify the correct rule, and ensure that he follows it accordingly.

He defines one who identifies the right rule but not follow it, as morally weak. This shows that a person’s wrong behavior solely originates from himself and he bares the whole responsibility.This may be too hard on those who may not understand the rules and end up breaking them. Human beings have different reasoning standards. As others are keen to point out the limits of their actions, others may be slow at it. Actions play a big role in the definition of morality. The actions between two or more individuals define character.

These actions originate from different or same habits that these individuals have. One’s action will influence the reaction of another, defining his character. This introduces a second party responsible for one’s action. Therefore, environment (culture) plays a role in defining ones morality (Peter & Nicholas, 2011)A person’s upbringing influences the virtues that he will have when he comes of age. Some virtues are inborn while others are acquired. Culture outlines the norms of one’s society.

Many do see that abiding by these norms makes one moral. Culture defines people’s social responsibility, and it enables smooth co-existence among people (Scarlet & Arthur, 2011).This social responsibility can be seen as ones duty to morality. The actions that are done usually are of different purposes. An individual can do action because he needs to benefit by protecting his life. On the other hand, it can be done just for the respect of the law to avoid consequences. In the end these actions, regardless of the reasons for performing them, defines ones morality.

Deontology helps to control individuals’ actions and the rights of others who interact. People should reflect on the consequences of their actions to others, before doing them. As people who co-exist, cultural laws outline the moral acts that all of them approve. This helps in the establishment of morality amongst them. Morality may be different in different cultures since the cultures tend to differ in several aspects (Turiel, 2002).In the end, each culture is responsible for the social responsibility of each member.

It inculcates good morals and ethics to individuals as they are brought up. It influences the economic and social traits in people. It is the teachings that it gives individuals, which defines what that person will be to the society.In whatever positions philosophers have taken, it is evident that morality involves individual actions, culture and the laws governing them. In the end, there is a smooth co-existence and respect for one another. In the event of disrespecting ones morals, there are consequences that follow (Scarlet & Arthur, 2011).

ReferencesPeter, S. & Nicholas, P. (2011). Thomas Jefferson, the Classical World, and Early America. Virginia: University of Virginia Press.Scalet, S. & Arthur, J. (2011). Morality and moral controversies: Readings in moral, social, and political philosophy (9th ed.). New York: Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.Turiel, E. (2002). The Culture of Morality: Social Development, Context, and Conflic. London: Cambridge University Press.