Moral Education Notes

Mora Educaton (Degree MPW 2153) 1
CHAPTER 1: UNDERSTANDING MORALS

DEFINATION OF ETHICS, MORAL AND VALUES
Ethic
Moral
Value
The term 'moraIity' is sometimes used in the sense that is opposite to 'immorality'.
We are discussing 'morals', 'morality', and 'ethics' in the sense of 'an institution of one's life, and not
equated with the meaning 'good' or 'correct'.
MoraIity is a social instrument that guides individuals and groups in their daily lives. t requires
individuals and group to follow it. t helps people to behave rationally as members of society.
MoraIity is an external element that is imposed on the individual and cultivated until it becomes a
habit.
The objectives and regulations normally become internalized, and this internalizing process may
not be quite rational, but it is for the inculcation of morality to be explained by some reason.
To explain that an action that we have done is right and good, we give reason based on our own
concept of morality.
Lmkokwng Unversty of Creatve Technoogy
(LUCT)
HUMAN CHARACTERISTICS
- derived from the Greek word 'ethos' which means
custom or usage.
- Can also be defined as a philosophical study of morals
i.e. good behavior, moral obligation , moral attitude,
moral responsibility, social justice and good living
qualities (V. Grassian, 1981)
- Or is moral philosophy or philosophical thinking about
morality, moral problems, and moral judgment.(W.K.
Frankena (1973)
- "There is no single definition of morality that is
universal and acceptable to everyone-W. Damon
(1988).
- word 'moraI' comes from the Latin 'mores' which has
the same meaning as ethos (R.B. Ashmore, 1987)
- is among other things, as 'price appraisal', which mean
' The price of something compared with the price of
another rank, quality, grade, standard, and high
attribute (in thought s, religion, society, etc.)' Kamus
Dewan-1995.
- Or that quality of a thing according to which it is
thought of as being more or less desirable, useful,
estimable, important, etc..
- Or the social principle, goal, or standard held or
accepted by an individual , class, society, etc.-
Webster's New World Dictionary (1991)
Other definitions of morality are:
Morality may be described as a system of personality traits which are in harmony with the inner
nature of the individuals and which are in accordance with the value approved by the society.
KohIberg (1973) considered morality or conscience to be the set of cultural rules of social action
which have been internalized by the individuals.
-Conscious (related with an impulse, which directs a person to act according to his moral judgment
-Internalizations of rules means refer to intrinsically motivated behavior in conformity to social
sanction.
Morality means that there are certain norms of life, which are considered and accepted by the
people in mind the culture, customs and traditions of the people and the place.
Morality is that aspect of human nature which emphasizes the right and wrong, the good and the
bad in a social environment
Morality is a definite way of life and virtues that are expected to be followed
Morality is the behavior according to the expectations of society and the following of the norms
Morality is a bundle of virtues which include honesty, truth, justice, responsibility, duty, altruism,
obedience to law and authority, discipline, courage, promise keeping and seriousness of purpose.
NORMATIVE AND DESCRIPTIVE STATEMENTS
Normative Statements
Normative Ethics-'Attempts to give coherent or logical, systematic and justifiable answers to moral
question'-V. Grassian (1981)
Moral ethics focuses on normative statements, which have implications on human behavior. Hence,
a normative statement is a value judgment that is good or bad, wrong or correct, acceptable or
unacceptable.
i.e.: 'Abortion is an immoral act' is a normative statement.
Frankene says that:
-n a moral judgment, a certain action or type of action is morally good or bad, correct or wrong,
obligatory or non-obligatory, necessary or unnecessary to carry out (called as a judgment of moral
obligation or deontic judgment.
-Matters that are neither action nor type of person concerning persons, their motives, aims, and
behavioral traits or nature.
(we can also say they are morally good, bad, vicious, responsible, blameworthy, and so on)
Evaluation of this sort s called moral value judgment or aretaic judgement.)
Descriptive Statements
They are not concerned with judgment of moral values.
For examples:
1. "n Malaysia, reshuffling the cabinet is the prerogative of the Prime Minister.
This is value-neutral statement. It merely explains fact pertaining to the situation in Malaysia,
without any moral judgment
2. "Parents have authority in the family.
3. " am a doctor.
4. "This is a watermelon.
(AII these exampIes did not invoIve any moraI judgment.)
(LUCT)
Sometimes we can change a non-normative statement into a normative statement about the same matter
as in the table:
NO MATTER DESCRIPTIVE NORMATIVE
1 Suicide Suicide cases have increased Killing oneself as a personal
sacrifices is permitted
2 Parents Parents have authority in the
family
Always obey the orders of your
parents
3 General Election Fewer people are registering
themselves as voters
Good citizens must register
themselves as voters
BASIC CONCEPT OF VALUE
Definition: value is something or some matter that can be gauged from the point of view of price,
which can be counted and also can be felt through intrinsic quality.
Morality is a type of value, even not all values are moral.
Actually, value is the principle of formation of attitude, perception of motivation, personality,
progress and development of one race and organization. Attitude that is shown by a person is the
symbol to something to rely on a person whether positive or negative
'It is a unit of measurement to measure the value of an individual"
ExampIes:
1) On our red currency note, Bank Negara Malaysia makes this declaration (this currency note is legal
tender for Ten Ringgit)-this is the value of that currency fixed by Bank Negara.We can buy
something that cost RM10 (values from the materialistic point)
From the aspect of morality, there is no difference between thief of RM 10 and RM 100,
because that kind of act is unacceptable, bad and wrong. (value of the people remain same-
stealing is wrong, bad character) even the number of money stolen different)
2) n a society, if a person posses a lot of money, he is considered as a rich a person, if he doesn't
have much money he is consider as a poor person.
However, we should not assess a person based on his wealth that he has, but we should assess
them from the point of view of his quality of living, his character, and the moral values that he
possess
Characteristic of Values
For human, value can be seen, appraised and felt through the subject's speech, movement,
conducts, speech, attitude and actions.
Values change from time to time and difference from place to place i.e. spirit of neighborliness is
different from town and village.
Function of Values
t acts as a criterion or standard which is consistent and strong for an individual or society to act in a
way that is good, correct and acceptable
i.e. through a strict corruption act( fine of not more than ten thousand ringgit or imprisonment of not
more than two years or both), the values of trust and honor plays an important roles as the basis to
(LUCT)
curb the behavior and action of people. He will be reluctant to receive or to offer bribe as the values
of trust and honor is practiced by them
t is an indicator, reference and guide to solve moral conflict.
i.e. you are offered a reward to carry out a task that is dangerous
Types of Moral Values compared
vaIue as an attribute.
i.e. Masa itu emas. means...time as being of precious value
Value as a measure of price or marks assigned to something or quantity.
i.e. total marks given by lecturer just to give the value of students.
Instrumental (Extrinsic) Values and Intrinsic Values
Extrinsic VaIues Intrinsic VaIues
Quality received or rejected as instrument
to achieve certain objective
dependent on other values to achieve
certain objective
second order value i.e. bravery, respects
others
i.e. We should be hardworking person
(extrinsic values) in order to success in life
(objective)
not dependant on other values to achieve
certain objectives.
first order values
i.e. Love toward parents (Intrinsic values)
love should not depend on other values or
objectives
love toward our parent-not because of their
wealth
Thus, it is depend on the situation and context.
We may choose a friend based on his IoyaIty (intrinsic vaIues)
But, we may use his/her expertise to achieve our goaIs (extrinsic vaIues)
i.e. if they are designer, they can create an advertisement for our company
Subjective vaIues Objective vaIues
Values accepted or rejected by someone
based on individual's opinion
Attack on raq by U.S.
Britain's View-U.S. should attack raq for a
long term peace
France's View-U.S. should not attack raq-
t may kill a lot of innocent people
Values that free from personal choice
Accepted or rejected on the basis of criteria
agreed upon by all or a majority of people
i.e war is terrible
ReIative vaIue AbsoIute vaIues
Value accepted /rejected by regulation in a
society in order to achieve certain societal
objective
can change with time
i.e -abortion can be legally practiced in
Western country, but not in Malaysia
family in Malaysia can be formed through
marriage, contrary to the western country
Values which not related to the custom of
certain society
generally accepted and tested or proven to be
good/bad
constant at all time and in all places and in
almost norms in society
i.e. values of justice
killing is considered immoral at any time and
any places
(LUCT)
(LUCT)
WAWASAN 2020 (VISION 2020)
Wawasan 2020 is a slogan in Malaysia that stands for a vision of a more developed future
Malaysia: a self-sufficient industrial develeped nation, complete with an economy that will be
eightfold stronger by the year 2020. The slogan was coined by former Prime Minister of Malaysia,
Mahathir Bin Mohamad.
There can be no fully developed Malaysia until we have finally overcome the nine central strategic
challenges that have confronted us from the moment of our birth as an independent nation.
Nine Challenge
First EstabIishing a united MaIaysian nation made up of one Bangsa MaIaysia
Second Creating a psychoIogicaIIy Iiberated, secure and deveIoped MaIaysian society
Third Fostering and deveIoping a mature democratic society
Forth EstabIishing a fuIIy moraI and ethicaI society
Fifth Establishing a matured liberal and tolerant society
Sixth EstabIishing a scientific and progressive society
Seventh Establishing a fully caring society
Eighth Ensuring an economicaIIy just society, in which there is a fair and equitabIe
distribution of the weaIth of the nation
Ninth EstabIishing a prosperous society with an economy that is fuIIy competitive, dynamic,
robust and resiIient
Our Focus
The fourth chaIIenge is the challenge of establishing a fully moral and ethical society, whose
citizens are strong in religious and spiritual values and imbued with the highest of ethical standards.
The seventh chaIIenge is the challenge of establishing a fully caring society and a caring culture, a
social system in which society will come before self, in which the welfare of the people will revolve
not around the state or the individual but around a strong and resilient family system
RUKUNEGARA
The Rukunegara (literally meaning the country's principles) consists of 5 attributes namely:
First : The belief in God
Second : Loyalty to the King and the country
Third : Upholding the constitution
Fourth : Upholding the law
Fifth : Good behavior and morality.
To think that the Rukunegara is the key to such a society would be to presume too much. Not everyone will
seek to abide by it. But in it lies the principles on which such a society can develop. t is not the answer. t is
but a means to that answer. By keeping it, every Malaysian is set on the road to a disciplined society.
(LUCT)
Our Focus
Fifth : Good behavior and moraIity.
The fifth rukun - is, doubtless, one, which is disciplined, for morality and good behavior are two pillars of a
disciplined society. A moral society will learn to live wisely, keeping itself from passions, which will ultimately
cause destruction. Good behavior can only come about if the society is disciplined enough to sacrifice
certain actions which, though apparently pleasurable and profitable, will cause harm and destruction.
How to inculcate the right values
1. The FamiIy .There obviously has to be much value restructuring in the home, which is the most
important educational institution in any society
2. The EducationaI System. Much more will have to be done in our educational institutions, through
the curriculum and extracurricular activities in infusing the moral and ethical values oaf particular
relevance to Vision 2020.i.e. National Service program (PLKN)
3. PubIic sector. Strengthening of law concerning business crimes, in terms of the legal provisions
and in terms of implementation and implementation machinery. We do not foster the necessary
code of morality and ethics if punishments are out of proportion to the crime and if business
criminals can operate with impunity.
4. The Private Sector. Here severaI ideas might be worth pondering
t might be useful for all business associations to adopt an internal code of ethics.
There might be some virtue in making it compulsory for every application to set up a
company to include a statement of its Code of Ethics
Steps should be taken to review the legal provisions concerning the disclosure of
information by companies and more rigorous standards of accounting methods and
auditing procedures. Become more transparent
Encourage greater involvement of shareholders in the affairs of their company, as in
Germany. n Germany, a person representing the workers sits as a member of the Board of
Director
There obviously has to be more training on ethics in practically on ethics
in practically every Malaysian company
(LUCT)
CHAPTER 2: THEORIES AND VALUE SYSTEM
THEORY 1: SOCIAL MORALITY SYSTEM
Definition:
Custom, habit, courtesy, character are connected with reguIations and standards
foIIowed by society.
Social life in such a society is not controlled only regulations and law alone.
Communication among the people is dynamic is not static. The coordinator of process here
requires techniques and skills as well as leadership and a system of ethics to form a norm or
standard for social life.
Because of this, normative values and societal regulations become a measure or criterion to
determine whether a certain action is right or wrong or certain behavior is good or bad.
They can then screen off that which is bad, wrong or not obligatory, like trespassing on someone
else's land, cheating, destroying the public property.
Aim and objective
SocietaI norm and reguIations tend to controI security of society and protect the
members' weIfare rather than serving the interest of an individuaI.
Other exampIes of sociaI moraIity system can be seen in the reIigious aspects.
The daily life of Christians is governed by the commands and prohibition set out in the Ten
Commandments which prohibit killing, adulterous, slandering, stealing.
Hindus are required to observe the moral regulations in the ancients writing like the Ramayana and
Upanishad (rules about what ought to do and what must they must they shun.
The Malays who are Muslim practiced a disciplined life observing the moral and ethical teaching of
the Qur'an and Hadith.
Buddhist are advised not to be extreme in life i.e. not unnecessarily torture themselves and not to
be controlled by desire
Advantages
Members of society normally observe a system of moral standards with general ethical principles related to
moral norms. The most important functions are:
1. The moral standard system in the society identifies situation so that each person
wards of self-interest to strengthen a system of behavior that brings benefit to self as well as to other
people.
2. Moral standards serve to resolve conflict in the society by giving justification that acceptable to the
public as bases for action.
This theory attempts to relate moral standards, regulations of society, and the countries or universal
law with ethical concept.
t also stressed the individual's responsibility to follow order from an authoritative body.
Disadvantages
1. A society that is closely controlled by regulations, particularly regulations that restrict the freedom of
members of the society will result in a dogmatic and authoritative situation
(LUCT)
i.e. some societal regulations prohibit the public from critising moral values in the regulation that
have been implemented. This reduces the autonomy of members of the society and increases the
authority of those in power
2. When different societies have laws, regulations, customs and moral values differ; morality relativism
occurs which result in misunderstanding, conflicts and misunderstanding
i.e. the racial riot in 16 of May 1969.
The war between ndia and Pakistan in the borders between these countries (Kashmir), took place
because of differences in religion, tradition and customs
Sometimes the government becomes more powerful, and the autonomy of members of the society
is reduces.
3. Some of the societal rules are considered cruel, bad, and immoral; it might influences the behavior
of people
i.e. discrimination of black people in South Africa by white people.
mperialism by Superpower upon small country.
4. Social morality theory much more related to the obedience to the authority; even may be some of
the rules are wrong and immoral
i.e. action of some of U.S. soldier during war against Vietnamese. There was killing, raping
involved.
They claimed that is only as act of obedience to the rules set by authority (for the sake of duty)
(LUCT)
THEORY 2: THEORY OF PERSONALITY VIRTUE.
Rachels
The ethics of virtue considers a different question: "What traits of character make one a good
person?
To develop an ethic of virtue, we need a definition of what a virtue is. RacheIs offers the following:
"A virtue [is] a trait of character that is good for a person to have. (RacheIs, EMP, p.163)
Next we need a list of virtues, and we need to analyze what the virtues consist in. Take the virtue of
courage and the Aristotelian program of analyzing this as a mean between extremes. Courage is a
mean between the extremes of cowardice as a defect and foolhardiness as an excess. When we
describe any situation in which a person mediates between cowardice and foolhardiness and is
actually courageous, then we will know what that virtue consists in.
Next we need an explanation as to why the virtues are important to have. RacheIs offers two
answers to this question: "Virtues are needed to conduct our lives well.[and] they are qualities
needed for successful human living. (RacheIs, EMP, pp.169-170)
Ethics has to connect with individuality honorable, behavior characteristic or characters of
honorable character.
Regulations should be discussed and proven based on concepts concerning personality virtues.
Aristotle (384-322 S.M.)
ndividuality is virtue's ethics. Virtue or individuality honorable is the group of concept like justice,
bravery, honesty, generosity, patience and wisdom that plays important role in life moral
ndividuality honorable is an inclination to do with a purpose. t is not naturally produced, as a
person the individual is not bestowing with honorable or evil characteristic.
Each individuality there is one 'middle way'. That is not more excessive and not extremely lesser.
Action that more excessive or extremely lesser. Action that more excessive or extremely more less
is wrong action, evil, bad, and can be criticize. See table 1
Good behavior
@ FeeIing
More excessive MiddIe way ExtremeIy Less
Spend Extravagant Generous Stingy
Anger Angry Patience Unenthusiastic
Conversation Sketch Wise Ashamed
Evaluation:
Person that must act and behave at medium rate with correct method. i.e a person that want to take
road central in matter relating to confidence or fearful. f not it is rash considered as who person
coward's - AristotIe
ndividuality honorable play various roles that cannot be overlooked by prosperity for the live person
-WaIIace (1978)
Barnes (1979)
He criticizes the doctrine 'middle way'. Discussion and advise 'middle way this doesn't give advice
and information about possibility or method that that was stated fair, medium or good when faces
the moral situation request. This makes a person that blurred and doubt when making one decision.
(LUCT)
Formation of personaIity
During chiIdhood: We are only told what is correct and what is wrong. We will obey advise without
thinking so as to avoid punishment. Childhood obedience to moral standard is based on self-
interest
When we reach adoIescence: the moral standard becomes internalized. We begin to understand
the implications clearer, and obey them because they appease the people we know and the people
who are related to us. Obedience to moral standard at the stage is based on loyalty to family, to
friends or to country.
t is only when we become mature and rationaI aduIts that we acquire the moral. Standard
inherited from our family or passed on through our peers, our culture or our religion. We begin to
evaluate moral standard and their consequence inconsistent, or biased against a certain group.
An individual 's personality virtues can be summarized as follows:
1) All personality virtues are acquired through the teaching learning process, or training.
2) Personality virtues are habit; they are ordinary deed that is definite and prominent. When such habit
is formed, a stable tendency develops in the individual and can be called individual characteristic
3) Personality virtues are operational; they enable us to determine how to behave and act in certain
way.This can take place internally, as we think about mathematical problem
4) Personality virtues are good, they differ from bad habits and vices.They are perfect, and allow us to
act in the best possible manner. With the acquisition of personality virtues, we become good
individuals. Vices have an opposite effect on us as they are destructive within our capacity.
There are clear advantages to a virtue ethics.
1) t provides moral motivation, the doing of our duty not just out of duty but also out of kindness,
compassion etc.
2) t rightly throws doubt on the standard view of impartiality built into the theories of ethics of action.
The virtuous person, practically speaking, is going to favor the interests of some over the interests
of others. Wouldn't be unvirtuous in some way if cared as much for my students as do for my
own children?
(LUCT)
THEORY 3: THEORY OF TELEOLOGICAL ETHICS
Definition:
a vaIue is right or wrong depends on the finaI resuIt of an action.
The final decision depends on the number of good or right matters that have been done, whether
directly or indirectly.
This mean that an action or deed has to be done if it is bring or is intended to bring, greater good
than bad according to the relevant regulations.
The teleological theory, which places great emphasis on the consequential result of an action, is
also known as consequentialism
The moral quality or value of an action of an individual, or the nature of his action, depends upon
the non-moral value produced or intended to be produced from it.
i.e. act of euthanasia;
morally acts if it is bring good consequence/result -lessen the pain of the patient; if not it is
considered as immoral.
Example of Teleological Ethics
UtiIitarianism
Definition:
that actions are right if they are usefuI or for the greatest happiness of the greatest
number of peopIe
i.e. The bombing of Hiroshima , was aimed the end of world war which had caused untold suffering.
Bentham introduced a scientific principle to analyze the quantity of pleasures, i.e. the calculus of
pleasures, or the hedonic calculus value can be divided into:
ntensity of pleasure derived from an action, duration of pleasure, certainty of pleasure and so on..
R. B Ashmore calls utilitarianism "a teleological theory which regards the end of action to be
general happiness and which judges praiseworthy those acts, dispositions, rules, and institution
which maximize the happiness of all who are affected by them"
This means that utilitarianism requires us to choose an action that will produces the greatest
happiness for greatest number of people. This good implies happiness and pleasures.
So, Utilitarianism implies that we need to consider an action based on is usefulness or benefits for
many people in improving their lives.
An action that we take is considered morally if it produces maximum pleasure
f it produces pain and suffering, it is considered immoral
Although Bentham's hedonic calculus is aimed at measuring pleasures and suffering, the
calculation process is difficult and contains many weaknesses. Among them are:
1. The intensity of pleasure or pain is a subjective matter, which is difficult to measure. t is
subjective because individuals feel differently
2. The quality of pleasure or pain experienced by one individual is not the same as that of
another.
"Classical Utilitarianism- the theory defended by Bentham and MiII- can be summarized in three
propositions:
1. Actions are to be judged right or wrong solely on the virtue of their consequences. Nothing
else matters. Right actions are, simply, those that have the best consequences
(LUCT)
2. n assessing consequences, the only thing that matters is the amount of happiness or
unhappiness that is caused. Everything else is irrelevant. Thus right actions are those that
produce the greatest balance of happiness over unhappiness.
3. n calculating the happiness or unhappiness that will be caused, no one's happiness is to
be counted as more important than anyone else's. Each person's welfare is equally
important. As MiII puts it in his Utilitarianism, the happiness which forms the utilitarian
standard of what is right in conduct, is not the agent's own happiness, but that of all
concerned. As between his own happiness and that of others, utilitarianism requires him to
be as strictly impartial as a disinterested and benevolent spectator. (Rachels, EMP, pp.
102-103)
Utilitarianism itself is divided into 2 types
UtiIitarianism Act UtiIitarianism Laws
The right course of action is the one that
produces benefits or happiness for many
people. We proceed with that action, we
should consider that action will bring more
pleasure (benefit) or pain (suffering) to other
people. f the effects of the action bring
more pleasure, that action is good, proper
and correct.
i.e. an officer receive bribe as much as
RM500.00 from a contractor. The total is
extremely small, But for the officer,
RM500.00 is considered as a lot and truly
meaningful.
Utilitarianism's theory allows the action
because it gives good result to exceed
disastrous consequences
i.e. 2) stealing food to be given to the poor
people.
t will bring great pleasure to a lot of people ;
so can be permissible even involved the
means of stealing
Meaning: we should follow or obey rules,
which will maximize pleasure for all
concerned.
t is not only questioned whether good or bad
from the action, but about regulations that
base on the actions
i.e. if an officer action that receive a small
bribe is benefit to him, and doesn't inflict a
loss to the country, we can do.
no longer emphasize only to the bad/good of
consequences but the means also should be
taken into consideration. in order to satisfy
the need or bring the happiness to others ,
we should observe our action according to
the law.
Weakness of utilitarianism
1 Extremely difficult to determine whether that is good for other
2 Not practice because situation is new and different and we are forced to decides what moral action
should to do
3 Action that is carried out doesn't guarantee will bring justice and admit the others rights
4 Very difficult to avoid from regulations neutrality because those regulations cannot be effectively
used
Egoism
Defination:
Egoism urge that onIy seIf-interest be considers whether right or wrong of an action
is speciaI for the consequence of the individuaI
(LUCT)
Egoism or selfishness can be defined as concern with one's own interest or seeking or
concentrating on one's own advantages or pIeasure or weII being without regard for other.
The egoistic theory or egoism defined as a theory which considers a value as good if it is benefits
the individual himself, bad or cruel if it harms causes him to suffer or loss.
I.e. The United States was anxious to attack Iraq o concerning the former, territories of Yugoslavia
and Russian on the basis of National interest. This resulted in political crisis and mass killing of the
Muslim in Bosnia-Herzegovina. It can be said that the U.S. egoism is clearly displayed in this case.
PsychoIogicaI egoism
s a descriptive theory, which states how people act. t consider all
peoples are selfish
Egoism can be divided into
EthicaI Egoism
Prescribe how they ought to act. They say that all men ought to be
or have the right to be selfish.
* Self-love is a simple reason to explain the presence of egoism in an individual
Egoism's theoreticaI weakness:
1. This theory doesn't give a consistent method in settling issues of self-interest conflict itself
2. The economy and moral become very necessary when the society increasing the complex which
causes social's dependence. Hence, will exist the self-interest conflict is forced and will be
continually sacrificed for the importance sake of others
(LUCT)
THEORY 4: DEONTOLOGICAL THEORY
Definition;
This theory emphasizes that correct or wrong of one of the action is not based or is
determined from the resuIts of action.
The action can be carried out just like that because one of the actions really is or not assumed
good.
Therefore, and individual does or does not do something entirely because that matter is thought to
be good or bad, and not because there is certain consequence to that action like fulfill the promises.
n other words, any action will become good, right, wrong, or obligatory only because of other facts
concerning it or its own characteristic.
i.e. taking a bribe is considered wrong by itself, not because the consequence of that action
Stealing goods from supermarket is considered wrong because the action is totally rejected by any
religion.
Helping an older cross the road is our responsibility, not because we will get the praises or money
from others.
Fulfill the obligations commanded by God is considered good and moral action, and not because of
its consequences.
This theory can be said to use an act-oriented approach. The measurement or evaluation of ethics
depends on the action of an individual and not the consequence of that action
But such a measurement is quiet difficult because a certain action that is acceptable in one society,
might be considered wrong in another.
i.e. The culture and beliefs of Pakistani people in the border of Kashmir, India differ from those in
Indians. This differences might lead to the confrontation among them
There are 2 Deontological types:
1. Obligation Principle or Principle of Duty
Wishes responsibility is implemented especially because the practice is a responsibility
PrincipIe of GoodwiII (Kants)
Goodwill is the desire to do something to fulfill our duty, and this goodwill comes from the heart.
Such a practice is in line with good behavior because it respects the law.
i.e .If an individual donates blood to someone purely because he wants to show he is a good-
hearted, his action is can't be considered a moral one. Someone who donates blood to another
person out of goodwill, i.e. without any condition, or without any motives is considered moral.
We must take into consideration the desire, intention or motive of a person in determining whether
the action is good and correct .An action will not be considered moral if it is done because of self-
interest.
Good individual from the viewpoint of moral is individual who always behaves or acting on the
obligations basis or as respect law.
i.e. the right of Malaysians to vote, responsibility of member of Parliament to take care of his/her
constituency
Kant as a moral principle portrays obligation or laws. Moral principle that is determined by the
individual has to obey to others. For example 'the principle doesn't want to assist others' is
forbidden because the individual who implements this principle might sometime in the future need
assistance from other person.
Another example is to bomb moral erroneous Hiroshima because Hiroshima's resident is not sinful
becomes the equipment to stop war. This is unfair and outrage human rights to live Obligation or
laws
(LUCT)
2. Existentialism's Principle
Wishes one value whether good or bad must base to individual's choice freely
Donate to mosque is good value over choice itself if it is carried out. On the other hand, the
individual's choice becomes bad value if is carried out because is forced.
Jean PauI Startre
Man in the beginning was not thought about in the mind of the creator.
What man will become will depend on the choices his makes.
They are entirely responsible for choosing what they want to become and they want to do i.e. my
career is not determined by any one when I am born
(LUCT)
CHAPTER 3: THE VALUES OF RELIGION
INTRODUCTION
Malaysia has three main races and many other communities. The main religions and beliefs in Malaysia are
slam, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism, Confucianism, Taoism and Animism.
BUDDHISM
The founder of Buddhism is Siddharta Gautama. Buddha was the title given to a prince when he
attained enlightenment
Siddharta left the palace and became someone who leads a simple and strict way of life because of
his religious belief. Various social issues, like the ndian Caste system, the power struggle among
the major king, disturbed the young prince.Siddharta was more concerned with the perennial
problems that plagued mankind such as sickness, suffering, life and death.
Buddhists Ethics
Buddha emphasizes ethics in the social Dimension. Ethics is a requirement of the individual in
bringing about a way of life that is valuable and virtuous and that practices meditation. Meditation
exercises call for full concentration on what one is doing, without being disturbed by others
thoughts.
The development of meditation influences daily life improves the individual's morality.
To understand Buddhist ethics, we need to focus on the Four Noble Truths:
1. Suffering or Dukkha is a normal thing.Suffering or dukkha is birth, become old and sick, separation
with person who is loved and doesn't receive something that is required
2. which is relates to the cause of suffering. People suffering stem from desire to obtain wealth and
pleasure that there is no end.The desire includes the desire for pleasure, desire to make
something,
3. to avoid suffering, person must get rid of or overcoming its desire.
4. to get rid or overcome the suffering, person must follow the Noble Eightfold Path, consist of:
Right Understanding -One must accept the Four Noble Truth. Knowledge with regard to stress,
knowledge with regard to the origination of stress, knowledge with regard to the stopping of
stress, knowledge with regard to the way of practice leading to the stopping of stress
Right Thought-One must renounce all desires and any thoughts like lust, bitterness, and
cruelty, and must harm no living creature
Right Speech-One must speak only truth; there can be no lying, slander or vain talk
Right bodily action/right behavior-one must abstain from sexual immorality, stealing and all
killing
Right livelihood- There is the case where a disciple of the noble ones, having abandoned
dishonest livelihood, keeps his life going with right livelihood
Right effort -One must seek to eliminate any evil qualities within and prevent any new ones
from rising
Right mindfulness-One must be observant, contemplative, and free of desire and sorrow.
Right concentration-After freeing oneself of all desires and evil, a person must concentrate his
effort in meditation so that he can overcome any sensation of pleasure or pain and enter a state
of perfection
(LUCT)
Buddhist Teaching Moral Values
Buddhist is very much concerned with karma and rebirth and these notions influence their action
and behavior. They believe that good deeds are reciprocated with goodness and bad deeds with
what is bad. This make Buddhist do good, like helping the poor and the handicapped, in the hope
that such deeds will be reciprocated in the next life
Buddhist stresses the importance of the environment in the development and formation of human
individuality. t encourages people to lead clean lives, associating with those who have high morals
and shunning those who are immoral
5 precepts in Buddhist
First precept: One cannot kiII or cause harm to other Iiving beings.
The precept implies acting non-violently wherever possible, and many Buddhist are vegetarian for
this reason
Second Precept: One shouId not take from the non-giving.
Stealing is an obvious way in which one can harm others. One can also take an advantage of
people, exploit them, or manipulate them, all these can be seen as ways of taking the not given.
Third Precept: One aIso shouId avoid sexuaI misconduct.
The purpose is to preserve the respectability of the family of each person concerned and to
safeguard its sanctity and inviolability
Fourth Precept: Not to Iie
Speech is crucial elements in our relation with others, and yet language is a slippery medium, and
we often deceives our self or others without even realizing that this is what we are doing.
Sometimes they are unable to say truth; i.e. they may have to lie to save themselves from harm, ,
this condition might be contrary to the concept of sila but it is not entirely wrong to its purpose.
Buddhist is very concerned with 'karma' and 'rebirth' and these notions influence their actions and
behavior. Good deeps are reciprocated with goodness and bad deeds with what is bad.
Fifth Precept: abstain from aIcohoI and drugs that cIoud the mind
mindfulness is a fundamental quality to be developed the Buddha's path, and experience shows
that taking intoxicating drink or drugs tends to run directly counter to this.
(LUCT)
MORAL VALUES
Buddha's foIIower's obIigation is dana (concession) to whoever that is poor and need
assistance
You perform reaI charity if you can give freeIy without expecting anything in return. The
essence of true charity is to give something without expecting anything in return for the gift. f a
person expects some material benefit to arise from his gift, he is only performing an act of bartering
and not charity. A charitable person should not make other people feel indebted to him or use
charity as a way of exercising control over them. He should not even expect others to be grateful,
for most people are forgetful though not necessarily ungrateful. The act of true charity is
wholesome, has no strings attached, and leaves both the giver and the recipient free.
The Buddhism views charity as an act to reduce personaI greed which is an unwholesome
mental state which hinders spiritual progress.When a person performs dana, he gives as a means
of cultivating charity as a virtue and of reducing his own selfishness and craving. He exercises
wisdom when he recalls that dana is a very important quality to be practised by every Buddhist, and
is the first perfection (paramita)practised by the Buddha in many of His previous births in search for
Enlightenment. A person performs dana in appreciation of the great qualities and virtues of the
Triple Gem.There are many things which a person can give. He can give material things: food for
the hungry, and money and clothes to the poor. He can also give his knowledge, skill, time, energy
or effort to projects that can benefit others. He can provide a sympathetic ear and good counsel to a
friend in trouble. He can restrain himself from killing other beings, and by so doing perform a gift of
life to the helpless beings which would have otherwise been killed. He can also give a part of his
body for the sake of others, such as donating his blood, eyes, kidney, etc. Some who seek to
practise this virtue or are moved by great compassion or concern for others may also be prepared
to sacrifice their own lives
Kindhearted to aII creatures.
n order to practice loving-kindness, one must first practice the Noble Principle of non-violence and
must always be ready to overcome selfishness and to show the correct path to others
n order to practice loving-kindness, one must also be free from selfishness
According to Buddhism, there are many types of emotions, all of which come under the general
term 'love' First of all, there is selfish love and there is selfless love. One has selfish love when one
is concerned only with the satisfaction to be derived for oneself without any consideration for the
partner's needs or feelings. Jealousy is usually a symptom of selfish love. Selfless love, on the
other hand, is felt when one person surrenders his whole being for the good of another _parents
feel such love for their children. Usually human beings feel a mixture of both selfless and selfish
love in their relationships with each other. For example, while parents make enormous sacrifices for
their children, they usually expect something in return.
Another kind of love, but closely related to the above, is brotherly love or the love between friends.
n a sense, this kind of love can also be considered selfish because the love is limited to particular
people and does not encompass others.n Metta Sutta, the Buddha has expounded the nature of
love in Buddhism. 'Just as a mother would protect her only child even at the risk of her own life,
even so, let him cultivate a boundless heart towards all beings. Let his thoughts of boundless love
pervade the whole world, above, below and across without any obstruction, without any hatred,
without any enmity.'
(LUCT)
CHRISTIAN
The Christian faith is connected to Jesus Christ. He was sent by God to save the world.
Christians believe that there is only one God. There will be a union of three persons: God the father, God
the Son and God the HoIy Spirit.
THE PROBLEM: SEPARATION
'Everyone has sinned and is far away from God's saving'. Romans 3:23
Through the ages, individuals have tried in many ways to cross this gap.
GOD'S ANSWER: JESUS CHRIST
Jesus Christ is the only answer to this problem. He died on the cross and rose from the grave, took
the punishment for the peoples's sin and bridged the gap between God and man
THE RESPONSE: RECEIVE CHRIST
The follower of Christian must trust Jesus Christ and receive Him by personal surrender and
invitation
The Bible
OId Testament
Genesis tells how God in this world created the first man and woman.
t also relates the story of the Ten Commandments, the conducts of the Christians in their daily lives
is controlled by commands and prohibitions which are:
1. Thou shalt have no other Gods than me
2. Thou shalt not make unto thee a graven or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above,
or that is in the water under the earth.
3. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord in vain
4. Remember the Sabbath day
5. Honour thy father and thy mother
6. Thou shalt not kill
7. Thou shalt not commit adultery
8. Thou shalt not steal
9. Thou shalt not bear bear false witness against thy neighbour
10. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, neighbour's wife, his manservant or
maidservant, ox.
Old testaments also pay great attention to the morality of man. Examples of ethical values
promoted in Proverbs are: Obey your parents, avoid sin, be loyal and faithful, be rational, avoid
adultery, don't be lazy, be honest, be generous.
New Testament
t contains the teaching of Jesus Christ himself at strengthening the law and commands sent down
by God.
t also deals with ethical values taught by Jesus concept, which have to be understood by all
Christians such as humility, patience, fairness, moderation and considerations for others.
There are several proverb statements that consist the values to be followed; that is: (refer to the
exercise given)
(LUCT)
ISLAM
slam is the youngest of the world's major religions. But Muslim didn't agree. They belive slam
exists since the age of Adam.
The physical, intellectual, social and moral development of a person is emphasized in slam. Priority
is given on the development of behavior, individuality, character and relationship with Allah (God)
The final objectives of a virtuous life on earth for a Muslim are to go heaven.
Man is given the task to be a caliph or representative of Allah in upholding the truth and peace
Al-Quran
The AI-Qur'an is slam's Holy book as original teaching of Allah. t contains messages revealed by
Allah to Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.)
This is followed by the Hadith which is a records of the sayings and actions of the Prophet
Muhammad (p.b.u.h.)
Islamic Teaching
Faith
t manifested through the 6 pillars of Faith, which tells the basis of all faith.
1. Belief in Allah as the one true God
2. There are angels that are between Allah and his prophets. They are used as messengers.
3. Muhammad was a messenger from God, as were the other prophets before him.
4. The Quran is a Holy Book from God.
5. The Last Day - This is the belief that the world will eventually come to an end. On that day,
there will be resurrection and judgment.
6. Destiny - they also believe that Allah knows what our destiny is.
Devotion
t manifested through 5 pillars of slam:
1. The Profession of Faith:t is the condition for membership in the Muslim community. Normally
during a typical day, a Muslim has to repeat to himself/herself the profession " bear witness
that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is his prophet.
2. The Five DaiIy Prayers: There are five prescribed daily prayers or salat. t is meant for all the
adult Muslims, they have to perform five prayers, but first ritually cleanse or purify themselves
at different intervals of the day. During the prayer, you have to stand, bow, and prostrate during
prayers and face a direction, known as 'qibla'. The Muslims are commanded to face the Kaaba,
the ancient shrine in the city of Mecca.
3. AImsgiving: Almsgiving also known as "Zakat is a religious obligation that is considered as an
expression of ones devotion to God. t represents the attempt and effort to provide the poorer
society and for a Muslim to purify their wealth and attain salvation. According to the Qu'ran, the
slamic tradition strongly encourages charity and to provide their moral obligations to the poor,
orphans, and widows.
(LUCT)
4. Fasting: The Muslims only fast during the month of Ramadan, The process starts with the
Muslims fasting from daybreak to sunset by refraining from eating, drinking, and sexual
intercourse. Except for the menstruating women, travelers, and sick people, they are exempted
from fasting but have to make up for the days they have missed. The purpose of fasting during
the Ramadan month is to introduce physical and spiritual discipline, it serves to remind the rich
the struggles of the poor, and fosters, and etc.
5. PiIgrimage to Mecca:This last pillar requires Muslims who have the physical and financial
ability to perform the pilgrimage, or haji, to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. The ritual takes
place in Mecca and the primary focus of this ritual is called the Kaaba, the shrine.The whole
point of this ritual is to purify yourself followed by a prayer at the Kaaba mosque.This final ritual
is the slaughter of an animal (sheep, goat, cow, or camel). So most of the animals slaughtered
will be distributed to the poor Muslims. This ritual sacrifice ends the haji and starts the festival of
the sacrifice, d al-adha. Ramadan and d al-adha are the two major slamic festivals celebrated
by Muslims worldwide.
MoraI Behavior (akhIaq)
Actions or deed, which have been done for long time and accepted by society. i.e respect to
guests, kindhearted to parents
IsIamic MoraI VaIues
Al-Qur'an is a yardstick to gauge slamic Values, later on should be understand practiced by all
Muslim
slamic morality is founded in aqidah (faith).t is strong foundation for the belief in Allah in the qada'
and qadar, in sin and merit (pahala), in reward and punishments in hereafter.
The kind of behavior recommended by Al-Qur'an is faithful, God-fearing, virtuous, sincere, patient,
helpful, forgiving, generous
God-Consciousness Humility, modesty, control of passions and desires, truthfulness, integrity,
patience, steadfastness, and fulfilling one's promises are moral values that are emphasized again
and again in the Qur'an
SociaI ResponsibiIity The teachings of slam concerning social responsibilities are based on
kindness and consideration of others. Since a broad injunction to be kind is likely to be ignored in
specific situations, slam lays emphasis on specific acts of kindness and defines the responsibilities
and rights within various relationships. n a widening circle of relationships, then, our first obligation
is to our immediate family parents, spouse, and children and then to other relatives, neighbors,
friends and acquaintances, orphans and widows, the needy of the community, our fellow Muslims,
all fellow human beings, and animals.
Respect and care for parents is very much stressed in the slamic teaching and is a very important
part of a Muslim's expression of faith.
Actually, according to the Qur'an and Sunnah, a Muslim has to discharge his moral responsibility
not only to his parents, relatives and neighbors, but to the entire mankind, animals and trees and
plants. For example, hunting of birds and animals for the sake of game is not permitted. Similarly,
cutting down trees and plants, which yield fruit, is forbidden unless there is a pressing need for it.
Caring for human being (habit for giving greeting and salutations, respect the neigbours and
visitor and avoid hurting people's feeling
CIeanIiness and heaIth care
BehavioraI traits that are despicabIe: unbelieving in God, envious, jealous, lying, cheating, killing,
drinking alcohol, committing adultery, slandering.
An individual with a virtuous character contributes positively to the well being of the society
ExampIes of the IsIamic MoraI
Respond immediately to someone's call
Be considerate of other people's feeling
Respond to request for aids for the needy
(LUCT)
Be gentle and forgiving
Avoid insulting others
Respect parents
Visit those who are sick
Ask for permission before enter the house of someone
Respects your neighbor
Refrain from shouting, raising your voice , don't behave aggressively
Greet or give salam 3 times
Ask the permission before enter the parent's room.
Respect the poor people, handicapped and poor people
(LUCT)
HINDUISM
t is the oldest religion in the world
t doesn't have the founder or any specific holy books
The early books that is written in Sanskrit's language is in the Four Veda:Rig Veda, yajur Veda,
Atharva Veda and Sama Veda
Theology
Atheism (no God), Monotheism (believe in One God called Brahma), Pantheism (God create
everything outside of his part of body, PoIytheism (believe in many God), Henotheism (believe in
hierarchy of God)
Brahmanical Hindu Ethics
1. The Vedas or collections of Hindu texts are ultimate authority of religion
2. A special principal of social order organizes the society into a function division of 4 classes
called Varna:
Brahmin (Religious people, educators)
Kshatriya (administrator, defense officials)
Vaihya (farmers, economists)
Shudra (slaves, menial laborers)
3. The Vedic hymns do praise certain humanistic virtues and moral ideas like truthfulness, giving,
restraints, gratitude, forgiveness, non-cheating, non-thieving, avoiding injury to all creatures.
Classical Hindu ethics
morally significant concepts are ashrama, dharma and karma
Ashrama- (life circle)-Life is seen as going through four relative stages-studentship, householder,
semi retreat and renunciation- in a cycle, each with its own code of conduct
Dharma-t gives the idea of something that maintains, gives order and cohesion to any given reality,
and ultimately to nature, society and he individual. t plays the role of ethical rules that regulate the
behavior of individual , family, society and country
Karma- (action-effect)After death a person's soul will be reborn or reincarnated and live in the body
of another person or animal. A person's merit in his lifetime will be rewarded and his demerits will
entail punishment. The merits and demerits a person possesses will determine his state in the next
life. So, Hindus will avoid sinful action
God
Hindu ethics usually associated with Brahman and is known as BrahmanicaI Hindu Ethics. Hindu
believes in the greatness of their Gods. God Brahman is assisted by deities who have their
respective duties of looking after the welfare of every creature of thing in the world
These Deities names Iike Brahma, Siva and Vishnu
Several Hinduism Ethics
Ahimasa-have a praiseworthy ethic; good attitude-do not hurt others by thinking, word and act
Sathya -not to cheat others and be responsible -keep the promise and not to lie
Asteya -not to steal belonging of others
Bramacharia-control oneself (control the lust before getting married and not to betray your the
partner
Aparigsraha-not to be greedy, spend wisely and moderately
(LUCT)
SIKHISM
Founder : Guru Nanak 1 and succeeded by a group of 10 teachers.
Holy Book : Guru Granth sahib Ji.
Sikhism believes that there is only one God and consider world has no beginning and no end,
cannot be analyzed by human thought, God create everything through His power and attributes
Formation of Sikhism revealed that slam and Hinduism influenced it
Laws of the Sikh Religion
Believe there is only One Mighty God.
There are 10 teachers from Guru Nanak to Gobind Singh
Always read or listen to the words of Guru Granth sahib Ji to perform your religious service
Practise 5 symbols of the Sikhs which is
1) Kesh (uncut hair)
2) Kanggha (comb inside the turban)
3) Kara (steel bangle worn on the wrist)
4) Kashehra (white shorts usually worn under the trousers),
5) Kirpan (Sword)-sense of braveness
Abolish feelings about castes, stop worshipping idols
Sikhism (from the moral aspect)
n the real world, the thinking of Human beings is always narrow and limited (houmai or egoistic)
Morally, man should open up his mind so that he can adapt himself to conditions around him, so
that a person will act more justly and moderately (sachiara)
(According to Guru Nanak, it is moral for an individual to distance himself from houmai and try to
acquire sachiara
Gearing one's self-quality to the sachiara level, requires paying careful attention to the aspects of
khands, such as:
1. Dharam Khan:be prepared to bring change and progress to oneself through sacrifice and
social duties
2. Gian Khand:look for knowledge by equipping oneself with wisdom.
3. Saram Khand:look for harmony and tranquility in oneself, appreciate the beauty of nature,
and of self
4. Karam khand: become altruistic, i.e. improve yourself internally, reject houmai (egoism)
and move toward sachiara level which ignores self-importance, but always fulfils social and
moral obligations.
5. Sach Khand: strive to attain the highest level; unite wisdom and self-virtue(karkar), value
consiousness(vekhe), and internal happines (nihala) in oneself
The followers should reject 5 aspects that are negative and morally incorrect:
1. Kam (desire)
2. Lobh (greed)
3. Moh (believe or worshipped something)
4. Krodh (anger)
5. Ahankar (arrogance)
These 5 aspects will cause a person to behave in an immoral manner and can be overcome
through practicing of religious teaching ore interacting with a virtuous person
(LUCT)
NATIVE BELIEFS
The orang asli community is a part of the Bumiputra society in Malaysia and they have the same
special rights.
The major tribes are the Negrito, the Senoi and the Melayu.
Native Beliefs System
They believe in animism, which is the belief that each object (stone, wood, etc) possesses a soul.
Many Negritos practice animism, their belief is freer and not restricted to any belief system.
The Senoi tribes have a deity who is almighty. They have 4 main deities names Engku, Karei, Hilok
and Hiwoh.They have power and act justly.
A small group of melayu Asli still believes that certain big tree possesses spirit and some of them
act according to the slamic teaching, as long they are Muslim.
Native Superstitions and Taboos
When a woman becomes pregnant, she refrains from eating the meat of animals, like the deer, it is
believed animals have horns the woman will have a difficult delivery later on.
When going long journey, a person should stuff his ear with some leaf, wood or grass o keep rain
away during the journey
When baby is born, no one should praise it-because this will cause the child to fall ill or even die
t is taboo to bring a mirror because storm and rain will result.
CONFUCIUSM
t is not really a religious story, but more like an educational philosophy of the Chinese people.
Books: Lun Yu, Meng zi, Da Xue, and Zhong Yong.
Ethics in Confucianism
Ren or kindhearted, means the attitude who loves everyone, humanity, welfare, willingness and
generous towards others.
Shu, includes generous, tolerance and compassion and involve the individual's itself with others.
For instance, don't do something towards others if you don't want the person do something to you.
Chung, means awareness in doing something good for himself and others. For example, if the
individual would like succeed, he must also assist others to succeed.
Li, involves manner, courteous, polite and custom in ceremony, speech and behavior's person.
This value will bring prosperity to everyone if individual implements each person's responsibility. .e.
a father must become a father and a child becomes a child.
Yi, which is something with correct method in specific situation that motive of one action is more
important than the results.i.e. , a person is assumed morals doesn't consider whether he succeeds
or failing in duty given to him
Ming, the individual should carry out all duties to the maximum limitly by not heeding its result
because the person cannot avoid presence mandate of God. Hence, when an individual gives the
most best in carrying out duty, he is freedom from concern, if he was succeeding or fearful if failing.
Xiou, are obedience to parents that is appraising and sincerely emphasize their emotion and lives
Zhi, means forbid and sincerity in behaviour.people can't cheat himself or others.
CHAPTER 4: THE MORAL PERSON
(LUCT)
WEEK 7
CHAPTER 4: MORAL PERSON
-
(LUCT)
THE MORAL
PERSON
ETHICAL
DIMENSION
MORAL
FORM
SOCIETAL RULES
HUMAN CHARACTERISTIC
PRINCIPALISTIC
ETHICS FORM
SITUATIONAL
ETHICS FORM
Moral
Reasoning
Moral
Ieeling
Moral
action
Raising Standard oI living
Developing intellect
Protecting human liIe
Avoiding moral deviation
Preserving social order
Preserving peace
Feeling oI guilt & disapproval
Intrinsic motivation
Believed importance
Protecting human right
Saving time and energy
Admiration and esteem
Special terminology
Believed justiIication
MORAL CONTENT
INTRODUCTION
Sugarman (1973) says " a person view will inIluence his way oI thinking and his liIe and
subsequently shape his approach to morality"
The way a teacher or a parent educates his pupils or children will be inIluenced by his views on the
concept oI morality.
For instance, iI parent who sees morality as a human obligation in Iollowing the rules and the law
will behave like a dictator who is unlikely to compromise when teaching his children about morality
in liIe
II that parents consider morality as a relative values which can be weighed one against another, it is
likely that he will allow his children to have Iree choice oI moral values and decide between right and
wrong. This compromising attitude oI parents is considered democratic
Introduction
Many views about Moral Concept and Moral Educational Concept are multidimensional.
SUGARMAN (1973) says " A person view will influence his way of thinking and his life and
subsequently shape his approach to morality.
The way a teacher or a parent educates his pupils or children will be influenced by his views on the
concept of morality.
For instance, a parent who sees morality as a human obligation in following the rules and the law will
behave like a dictator who is unlikely to compromise when teaching his children about morality in life.
f that parents consider morality as a relative values which can be weighed one against another, it is
likely that he will allow his children to have free choice of moral values and decide between right and
wrong. This compromising attitude of parents is considered more democratic.
n this chapter, we will discuss the concept of moral from three aspects, i.e, Moral Content, Moral Form
and Moral Dimension. At the end of the topics we can see how they relate to the formation of a moral
person.
Moral Content
Societal Rules
Human being require rules, which place certain restraints on their freedom to act in order that the safety
and human rights of others can be protected.
D. EMMET (1966) in his book "Rules, Roles and Relations says that human rules do not exist by
themselves, but are compiled from old and new knowledge and experience in human life. He also says
"people tend to observe customary rules and traditional codes in their relationship with other people.
Such rules save time because they provide a reference. For people when they make choices or
decision in their daily life. However we need to understand the role of rules that are universally
considered as a moral in society.
The moral issues experienced first by an individual are the customary rules and regulations that form
the "mores of a society. Such customs are not merely habitual ways of action, but are also ways that
are validated by a human group. They have a prescriptive force which not only imposes conduct and
behavior in the community, but also explains how one should act
(LUCT)
Moral or ethics has content. The contents divided into two aspects
Societal Rules Human Characteristics
Customary Rules and regulations provide customary morality, which is diIIerent Irom reIlective morality.
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Customary morality reIers to standards or rules oI our
ancestors. An individual accepts and act accordingly
because they are prescribed norms. This customary
morality cannot be disobeyed or challenged. An
individual is expected to conduct himselI within the
boundaries oI customary morality.
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ReIlective morality calls Ior reasoning and
consideration oI the individual. The main thing about
reIlective morality is to be Iamiliar with the reasoning
and then to observe or oppose the customary rule. This
leads to the Iormation speciIic criteria to judge the way
to act. Here, the justiIication oI the customary directions
must be careIully considered. ReIlective morality
stresses on reasoning to observe and examine customary
rules beIore acting on them.
28
.
Nevertheless, it is difficult for all the people to follow all the rules of the society and we cannot force
anyone to do so. Therefore, when some people do not follow a certain rule, but oppose it, we can
only hope that they can quickly find a way to settle the matter by forming a new rule that is
acceptable to everyone.
n Malaysia, the May 13 1969 tragedy is an example of what can happen when rules of the society
and the country's laws are challenged. Because of this, values like tolerance, co-operation and
unity should be incorporated into the rules of a multi-racial society like Malaysia so that the safety of
the people can be safeguard.
n conclusion, the aims of rules of the society in preserving peace and in ensuring harmony are of
equal importance. As moral individuals we cannot overlook this.
(LUCT)
Hence, the main diIIerence between customary morality and reIlective morality is not what is believed but
the reason that believes is preserved. So, customary morality always deIends itselI with statements like
'This is traditional or 'This is the way we act or 'This is how we have been taught
We can say in a moral system, the conduct oI an individual is rule-governed, i.e, that all actions oI a similar
kind are considered in the same way. Consistency and reciprocity mark the attitude oI a moral agent
towards his own action, and that oI another person, i.e, he will use 'moral language like justice, honor
benevolence and temperance. His moral system will also cover both general as well as speciIic norms.
29
For example, the welIare and needs oI other people are things that will be given attention to by the moral
agent. He considers himselI in the same way as he considers other people and he sympathizes with other
people. Such an individual realizes that there is a need Ior people in the community to Iorm criteria to
streamline interaction between one another and that an agreement can be achieve based on mutual needs.
The importance and functions rules of society
Improve the standard oI living oI the people.
Develop the intellectual capacity oI the people so
that the Iunction more eIIectively.
Protect human liIe
DeIend human rights and people`s welIare
Prevent degradation in behavior and morals oI the
society
Stabilize condition in the society
Create and preserve social order
Maintain peace in the society
Preserve social harmony, and
Save time and eIIort when making decisions Ior
oneselI or other people
29

Richard B.Brandt (1979) in his book "A theory of the Good and the right "calls this system is moral code
or ethical code of an individual or a society. The ethical code of an individual is the conscience of the
individual, and not all persons have an ethical code.
(LUCT)
An individual should have virtuous characteristics that distinguish him as a moral person.
This statement is important and supported by many philosophers.
1.D WALLACE (1978) says that
virtuous characteristics are important
to a person and to his tranquility in
liIe in the society.
Z.FENG (1993) says that the development oI a virtuous
character in a pupil during lesson in school should be the main
aim oI the curriculum oI Moral Education. Educationist in
Western countries agrees that virtuous character should be the
main moral content in the shaping oI an individual.
Brandt recommends six qualities or traits in moral code or ethical code
1. Intrinsic motivation
An individual has intrinsic desires or aversion to do, or not to do something in a certain way. For example,
his reluctance to break a promise, reluctance to hurt a person and reluctance to help someone in need.
According to intrinsic motivation, when asked why he did something, that individual will answer, 'I did it
because I didn`t want to break a promise. When an individual is reluctant to do something in a certain
way, he usually hopes that other people will not do it in that way either, and will try to prevent others Irom
doing it. Nevertheless, intrinsic motivation used in this manner is usually not encouraged by society. The
most positive eIIect oI intrinsic motivation that an individual can display is a reluctance to hurt or kill
another person, and willingness to help save someone in danger.
2. Feeling of guilt and disapproval
When an individual acts in a manner contrary to his own intrinsic motivation, he Ieels uncomIortable,
sinIul and remorseIul. When another person acts in a manner that is opposed to the individual`s intrinsic
motivation, that individual will be biased towards that second person (especially iI he himselI is the victim
oI the action). Similarly, an individual does not like other people to disagreeing with his actions. II he
knows that other people do not agree with him, he becomes uneasy and Ieels sinIul. However the
disapproval oI others will improve the ethical code and make it more eIIective in preventing action not
liked by other people.
3. Believed importance
Conduct brought about by intrinsic motivation is considered very important to an individual, to the extent
that he Ieels it should become part oI his nature. For instance, individuals may believe that rendering Iirst
aid to an accident victim (intrinsic motivation) is so important (because it saves liIe) that he may want to
include that as one oI his personal characteristics. This means that he has a perceived or believed
importance about rendering Iirst aid.
4. Admiration or Esteem
Opposed to the negative attitude one has for people lacking in moral motivation is the feeling of
admiration and esteem for someone who has done something extraordinary in the moral sense.
For instance, a person who has done something extremely praiseworthy, like a soldier sacrificing own life to
save a colleague from being killed in a hand-grenade explosion. n this case, the soldier has done
something beyond what is required by basic motivation. Acts like this are sometimes called acts of
supererogation.
5. SpeciaI TerminoIogy
t is difficult for the ethical code to control the actions of a person if that person does not know how to
conceptual framework that is rather complex. Only through knowing special terminology for motivation and
moral action can a person understand and appreciate this complex moral concept.
(LUCT)
6. Believe justification
An individual must have justiIication Ior his motivation, sinIul Ieeling, disagreeable attitude, admiration
etc. An example oI such a justiIication concern religion. II a person holds strongly to the teaching oI a
religion and considers its moral principles as god`s demands, he will satisIied with his morality and
Ieels rational to act in a way that may be opposed to his own interest in the long run.
According to the Brandt, iI a person possesses all these, he deIinitely has ethical code. However, iI
he possesses Iewer than six oI these qualities, he may, or may not, have ethical code. It depends on
who evaluate him.
31
MORAL FORM
Principle oI ethics is 'The decision you take must be determine by moral principles, especially justice
and altruism which are basic values and mother to other values.
The development oI science and technology, particularly inIormation technology (IT), has resulted in
closer communication among the people oI the world. The world has become more complex. The
world we have today is made up oI many made up oI many countries with people oI various
nationalities, races and ethnic groups. This plurality means that there are many types oI laws, various
rules, ethical codes, customary practices, cultures and administrative systems.
31
As a result, people in each society cannot run Irom their own morality questions, and have to
solve their own moral problems, especially the moral dilemmas that constantly disturb their
thinking and emotions.
For example, Ior an individual who lives in the modern society but is still inIluenced by the
rules oI his traditions and customs, there is possibility that he cannot resolve the problems he
Iaces in his modern liIe with the rules that are quite out-dated but still inIluential in his
community. This situation does not arise iI the individual is brave enough to oppose such
rules and make decision without concern Ior the views oI his community.
However, both these principles are the bases for the formation of other moral values, such as fairness,
intelligence, bravery, patience, industry and the like. These values allow a person to act more effectively
when confronted with an unusual situation like moral dilemma.
(LUCT)
V.GRASSIAN (1981) says, to resolve a moral dilemma, apart oI using your intelligence (virtuous
characteristics) and reIerring to societal rules, an individual needs to consider the moral principles which
he consistently uses. He should arrange the principles in hierarchy so that one or more basic moral
principles can be used as a tool to justiIy other moral principles. He should also ensure that these
principles do not conIlict with each other.
GRASSIAN suggestion two of the ethical forms
Principalistic ethics form
This ethical uses moral principle (basic and
derivative) to resolve problems
Situational ethics form.
Principalistic Ethics Form
When we make a decision in a moral dilemma, we can use the most basic moral principles, especially
'the justice principle or 'the altruistic principle which are basic values and mother to other values.
Because oI these, these two principles will be used as examples in the discussion oI ethical Iorms.
The term 'justice comes Irom the Latin word 'Justus which means 'law, right. Today justice is used
in the sense oI 'the quality oI being righteous, rectitude in partiality, Iirmness.
According to Kamus Dewan, justice is quality that is Iair and impartial. Hence the concept oI justice
concerns all actions and conduct oI a person that are Iair to himselI as well as to other people. In other
words, an action that is unIair (injustice) does not beneIit certain people because such actions cause
dissatisIaction and anger against the person who perIorms injustice.
The principle oI 'altruism: is also an important ethical principle used as a reIerence in making moral
decisions.
THOMAS NAGEL (1970) in his book 'The possibilitv of Altruism explains altruism as an attitude or
action which pleases or beneIits other people. Hence, an altruist is a generous person, a philanthropist.
He also says that to have an altruistic quality, a person must be empathetic, i.e, able to place himself in
other peoples position and share his feelings and emotions as if thev were his own, and be open
minded and tolerant.
W.K. FRANKENE (1973) says, that sometimes an individual claims satisIaction not Ior himselI, but
Ior other people. i.e., self-sacrifice. Altruism believes that there is altruism in people, i.e. that people
fust want to do some good for others.
(LUCT)
3-$"'$-%4', 5$6-1# 7%(&
Occasionally, in certain situations, an individual has to make decisions and act based on the
situation he is in.
FLETCHER opposes three approaches used to resolve problems and make moral decisions. The
three approaches are 'Legalism, Antinomianism and Situationism.
According to Fletcher, A person who uses the situation approach enters into every decision-making
situation Iully armed with 'ethical maxims and he treats them with respects as illuminators oI these
problems. just the same he is prepared in any situation to compromise them or set them aside in the
situation iI love seems better served by doing so. Ethical maxims here are the ethical rules or
principles used to deal with problems based on speciIic situations.
33
Moral Dimensions
We can break up ethics into three dimensions, viz. reasoning,
Ieeling and perIormance. These dimensions are illustrated in the
diagram above:
Moral
Reasoning
Moral Feeling
Moral
Performance
Ethical
Dimension
Thinking &
Judging
Emotion &
Feeling
Behavior &
Action
Rational, Free,
Normative, Accurate,
Sharp, Creative,
Innovative, Critical
Empathetic, Altruistic,
Sympathetic,
Generous, Loving,
Compassionate,
Sentimental, Energetic
Responsible,
Dedicated, Caring,
Co-operative.
33
(LUCT)
Analysis of the three dimensions:
Moral Reasoning
To be able to make moral reasoning, i.e. to
think and fudge rationallv and freelv.
Moral Feeling
To have moral emotions like conscience and
sensitivity over Ieelings oI what is wrong or
shameIul, oI anxiety, sympathy, empathy,
generosity, love, compassion, motivated by what is
altruistic and correct. Such Ieeling will enable the
individual to act morally; so moral emotions are
important to control one`s behavior and actions,
and prevent one Irom doing anything that is anti-
social. For example, sympathy and empathy cause a
person to always help the poor or the handicapped
without thinking about his own interest.
Moral Performance
To be able to conduct oneselI in a manner
that is morally correct, i.e. to act in a fullv
responsible wav, according to ones
abilitv, in making decisions based on
careful reasoning and moral emotions.
34
CHAPTER 5: SOLVING MORAL CONFLICT
Types of Conflict
Conflicts may arise under the following situations:
A type of right may clash with another type of right, or a kind of freedom may clash with another
kind of freedom.
Conflict may arise between one person and another. A person's freedom may have to be curtailed
in order to maintain the freedom of another
n this chapter we will discuss the tensions between different ethical theories or social policies.
Forms of Tensions are:
1. Divergence
When one set of reasons leads to the conclusion that one action should be taken while another set
points to a different action.
What you would do in following the first set of reasons is different from what you would do in
following the second set of reason.
The example of Sara's case.
Sara who has living with Frank, a married man, might out of deontological considerations ask Frank
not to divorce his wife, but she felt that remaining in that relationship with Frank would in the end
hurt her. She might feel that if she and Frank never marry, there would no reason to prolong the
relationship. From such reasoning, Sara might decide that she should break off the relationship with
Frank.
This is an example of divergence-deontoIogicaI consideration advise him not to divorce his wife,
(1st reason); egoistic considerations (2nd reason) make him decide to break up the relationship.
When two sets of reasons bring us to divergent conclusion, it is possible for us to resolve tension by
carrying out both the recommended action.
2. Conflict
Different ethical theories or social policies might give rise to recommendations that logically
contradict each other. i.e. when you follow one recommendation, you will be prevented from
following another.
For instance, in the case of Sara, if she had persuaded frank to divorce his wife and married her, it
would not be possible for her to follow other recommendations.
n short, conflict happen in situations that when you follow one set of recommendation, you are
prevented to from following another set of recommendations.
(LUCT)
Ethical Conflict
Sara's case can be evaluated by discussing the following ethical theories and concepts:
1. Egoism and General Utility
Egoism (Sara is only thinking about her interest, not thinking the welfare of Frank's wife and
children)
Reason given by Sara why she should marry Frank:
Her life would be delightful and Frank would be a good father
General Utility/Utilitarianism- def: actions are right if they are useful for the greatest
happiness of the greatest number of people.
So, Sara expresses her view by considering the interest of Frank's wife and children by
reviewing the consequences if divorce took place. She examines the short and long term
risk
2. Happiness and duty (deontology)
According to deontological theory there are actions which are intrinsically good or bad, right
or wrong.
Argument given by Sara: Frank is already committed and his wife trust him.-Sara agree that
keeping one's commitment and not betraying the trust are intrinsically good ad right
(deontological reason )
Normative Conflict in Social Philosophy
n this section we are now concentrate on normative conflict in social philosophy
The normative issues of social philosophy are usually related to freedom, justice, rights, law and
sovereignty.
Tensions are arising between criteria of the same value.
nternal conflict: arise from fundamental values of social philosophy: i.e. the issue of abortion, work
recruitment quota and willingness to pay tax. The following are some examples of such conflicts
(LUCT)
Examples of Conflict:
1. ConfIict between Justice and SociaI UtiIity
Social utility: benefits without considering the cost.
The care of children, elderly and handicapped imposed greater cost than benefit they bring. There
is a tendency to reduce these costs. But denying these disadvantaged people from full share of
benefits seem unjust.
Elderly should be given free treatment during their retirement, but people said it is unfair
Justice and social utility conflict
2. ConfIict between Rights and Freedom
Right and freedom can also cause tension in a society. The cost of social programmes may affect a
person .i.e. the expenditure of any social programme is funded through taxes which are paid by
public; but paying taxes is tantamount to a restriction of negative and effective freedom.
We also raise the claim of human rights. Woman has the right to have as many children as she
want, but there will be restriction given by UN Declaration of Human Right saying that only mother
who are able to provide for their children food and medical care are given the right to deliver the
baby. This also curtailing the rights of mothers.
Reason for Conflict
Many factors threaten the future of mankind, such as nuclear weapon, the green house effect,
pollution, population explosion and depletion of natural resources.
These problems have arisen because various people pursue their own interest and ignore the
welfare of others. Let us look to this situation
SociaI DiIemma
Factor that threaten the future of mankind.
i.e. nuclear weapon , green house effect, depletion of natural resource, is an examples.
t is arise because people only pursue their own interest and ignore welfare of others.
i.e. owner of factory (whose factory contributes to pollution) thinks that it is costly to install a
pollution control .It caused major pollution and effect the others.
Social dilemma will be solved if we can fulfill our own interest and at the same time look after the
welfare of community.
The ExampIes of SociaI DiIemma:
Tragedy of Common
t is result of large-scale destruction of forest and emission of carbon monoxide and other gases
from vehicles and factory. Similarly when individual pollutes the environments or exploits its natural
resources, he is contributing to pollution in this world.
n daily life, many situations that cause public tragedies like this. Sometimes people dirty public
facilities like toilet, roads and parks. Such actions benefit us but harm others.
ConfIict between Groups
t occurs at all level of social organization. Fights between bank staffs with employer, riots in the
cities because of racial misunderstanding.
Examples of conflict between groups:
1. Strike organizes by labor union against their employer to find the reason for their friend's dismissal.
2. Conflict between black and white in US
3. Conflict between srael and Palestinian claims the right of territories.
(LUCT)
Cause of ConfIict:
1. Competition.
Conflict occurs when there is competition over the limited sources. Wealth, prestige, natural
resources, energy are too limited. So, they people strive to get them and sometimes prevent others
from getting the resources.
2. Categorization
Human always-classifying objects into categories. A person's perception that he is placed in a
group that is different from other people sometimes become a factor for group discrimination, which
later become a conflict
3. Intergroup aggression.
Negative interaction between two groups such as insult each other, destruction of personal property
can lead to the conflict
Example of Conflict and Models of Resolution
Socrates ethicaI thinking confIict:
magine you have attempted to be a good person, and have been doing good deed for all people
around you. But the people don't like you and they consider you as a danger person.
So, you're caught, put on injustice trial and you are sentenced to death. But, suddenly, your friend
comes, and offers you the opportunity to escape from the prison? Do you want to grab this
opportunity?
deas given by Socrates:
a. We shouldn't allow our decision to be influenced by our emotion. We must analyze the
facts with clear mind
b. We can't use the ideas of other. We need to find answer that we ourselves feel is right and
we must also think for ourselves
c. We shouldn't do something that morally wrong.

Socrates gave three arguments to show that he should not break the law by escaping:
1. We should not harm anyone.
2. When person lives in a country, he virtually agrees to follow the law of that country.
3. A person's country is like his parent or teacher and that person ought to obey his parent
and teacher.
Strategies in Resolving Conflict
1. VaIue AnaIysis Strategies
This approach deal with conflict analytically by identifying beforehand the value elements and facts.
For each fact, they have to study pros/cons of action.
ndividually has to think rationally and logically before the value judgment is made.
When analyzing relevant issue, individual has to study the effect that likely to happen to consider
the feeling and welfare of people involved in the conflict, and to give priority to result or
consequence as a whole when taking action based on decision made.
Conflict, which involves many facts, people, and moral values in a complex manner, can be
analyzed by this strategy.
This table shows the procedures that should be followed when working on values analysis strategy
(LUCT)
Case of KubuIa (SuppIement case study to be discussed)
There will be a riot in the city of Kubula, the country of Jaranko.Fight broke out at the middle of
footbal match between Xora and Pola .Several peoples are dead and hundreds injured, and police
are unable to stop it.A meeting between the Xoro and Pola leaders is in progress at Prime Minister
Lukarta office held.PM's view: "this riots should be stop; let's put our arm and make peace."Xoro
leader said:" t doesn't make sense.We can't trust the polas' citizens and their leader who are
robbers. They would take people's life and soon destroy our culture."Pola leader replied:"the Xoros
are the people who want to change the law, destroy the old ways and structure in society, just to
create chaos government." PM then calm down the situation and persuade them to solve the
problem.Xoro leader want the action taken properly not only by talking without action.PM gives a
solution: at least has 10-hour truce.Xoro agree to have 5 hour truce PM's resolution to end the riots-
by has a compromise. Pola will give up control at the court system. Half of seats in the senates
return for access to the Xoro as well as controlled the labor union. By using the case of Kubula , we
might use several strategies in order to solve moral conflict; that is:
2. Hierarchy BuiIding Strategy
f there are two or more values cannot be achieved together, so which value should be considered?
The answer should be the more important value. Hence, from the hierarchical ranking of values, a
decision is made.
by using the case of Kubula country,
Citizens of Kubula faces a conflict between social stability and justice
Xoro group is not satisfied with the social order that benefit Pola group.
They can use a hierarchy strategy to solve the problem.
Xoro see two values:
1. Social stability
2. Justice
So, they form a ranking
a) Justice (enough power and money)
b) Social stability.
From the hierarchical values, a decision is made.
To build a hierarchy that can be useful model for resolving conflicts, we have to formulate our
ranking with an objective criterion acceptable to all parties.
(LUCT)
The Fraenkel Approach
Conflict what is the dilemma
(social, personal, interpersonal, intergroup)
Choice of action what are alternative actions that can be taken to resolve the conIlict
Effects Ior each alternative action, what are the eIIects which are likely to
happen
Results What results can be obtained Irom those eIIects?
what are the prooI?
1udgment which results is better? What are the criteria Ior the choice?
Decision on action what is the decision?
Another alternative way to form hierarchies is by searching the fundamental values
i.e .: in a certain trade union, the members comprise of skilled and unskilled workers.
The unskilled workers are frequently laid-off and there is no welfare program such as training and
also no job security
The skilled workers are well-paid and they have job security
The trade union received the demand from both group.
Conflict:
Unskilled: they want job security
Skilled: want additional weekend holiday,
So, Union labor decided to retain the welfare of unskilled first because it is more important and
fundamental.
Life, job secure and health (fundamental value)
Leisure, holiday (secondary fundamental)
Problem: quiet difficult to determine which value is more fundamental than others.
3. Strategy of DissoIution
Strategy of dissolution of conflict is the development of alternative that avoid problem.
When we are faced with situation in which whatever choice we make will be undesirable the
possibility of not having to choose, or being able to choose, a third alternative will be attractive.
i.e. serve both A and B for dinner.
If we give a vegetable, B is not happy
If we give B steak, A doesn't want to eat.
So, we use the alternative serve the both steak and vegetables.
f tension is due to undesirable sets of consequences of either of two alternative courses, where
there is still a third or fourth course of action, then avoid the first two courses.
t has limitations.
t cannot be used to deal effectively in some cases. Some conflict seems unavoidable, especially
when we have no power.
i.e. conflicts about human rights. Some government curtails or limits the freedom of their citizens to
ensure the effective administration of the governments.
We have no alternative rather than just obey the rules of government.
Sometimes this strategy can be said as does not build character. We are just let others satisfied
even we are not so happy with the alternative or solution given.
4. Strategy of Compromise
n Kubula case, the Prime Minister uses the method of compromise to stop the fighting.
The solution:
Temporary truce takes place
Gives Xoro-controlled of trade union
Pola-control the court and half of senate seat.
Presupposition:
We cannot apply the hierarchy approach
No person can be ranked higher than any other person
All people must be ranked equally.
Compromised is used as a last resort, after we a sure that strategies of hierarchy and dissolution
cannot resolve the conflict.
(LUCT)

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Mora Educaton (Degree MPW 2153) 1

CHAPTER 1: UNDERSTANDING MORALS

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