Reader questions and feedback on character issues. Also refer to honesty, courage, responsibility, honor, reliability, service, stealing, cheating, Ron Kurtus, School for Champions. Copyright © Restrictions
Answers to Readers' Questions on Character:
Morality
The following 2 comments and questions have been sent in. They are listed according to date.
List of first 10 items
Feel that stepson is getting bad influence
Question
June 3, 2007
In a world where we are wanting to protect our children and teach them right from wrong, why do some people think that because the children are exposed to violence in games and irreputable conduct out in public or misbehavior at school that we can't do anything to fight and make sure our children act in a good and moral way? My mother-in-law is raising my eight year old stepson and buys him games with a mature rating and lets him watch things on tv that I find very embarrassing or morally wrong and my husband too does this. If I say anything they just say well he knows right from wrong he isn't going to do anything wrong and since he can see it anywhere why fight it?
Pamela - USA
13872
Answer
Children aren't born with the knowledge of what is right from wrong. They are taught it and learn by observation. A good example is that very young children who are beaten by their parents because they cry, will in turn punch a playmate who has hurt himself and started crying. They think that hitting someone who cries is the right behavior, since that is what their parents taught them.
It would be better if your mother-in-law would put some boundaries about what your stepson can see and do. The rating on the game is there for a purpose. But also, some people believe that entertainment meant for adults will not harm children, because it is the "real world".
Since you are not raising the child, you really have no say in how he is being brought up and what he is allowed to do. But you can influence him by your own behavior and by letting him know your beliefs. Of course, you need to make sure you are not undercutting your mother-in-law.
It is a tough situation, and hopefully the boy will pick up on your influence.
What is the benefit of being moral?
Question
November 12, 2004
what are the benefit of being moral in individual as well as society level?
adedokun - ghana.
4997
Answer
Being moral is very much determined by one's religious beliefs. The benefits are those related to religion as well as self-respect and respect of others.
At the society level, immoral behavior can lead to the breakdown of the family and other values. But note that what is immoral to one person may not be that to another. Two groups that have opposing views of what is immoral can be at odds. For example, in the US there is a conflict between those who believe abortion is immoral and those who do not.
The benefit at the society level is more harmony.
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