Explanation of how being moral is a sign of character. Also refer to decent behavior, vulgar, immoral, standards, 10 Commandments, obscenity, discriminations, adultery, respect, Ron Kurtus, School for Champions. Copyright © Restrictions

Being Moral Shows Character

by Ron Kurtus (11 August 2002)

A person who upholds high standards of decent behavior can be considered as moral. People don't respect those who are vulgar or act immorally. They would prefer to deal with those who are decent and have high standards. The moral person feels good knowing that he or she is respected.

Questions you may have are:

• What is moral conduct?
• What is immoral conduct?
• What are the benefits of being moral?

This lesson will answer those questions. There is a mini-quiz near the end of the lesson.

Being moral

A moral person is one whose conduct is good or virtuous, especially concerning sexual and ethical conduct. It also means that you try to do what is right and ethical.

Morality is usually based on religious laws such as the 10 Commandments. One commandment states that you should not commit adultery, but instead lead a decent life. Dedication to your family is also important is being moral.

Some people being very moral and pious, but they are also self-righteous such that they look down at others who don't adhere to their standards. The self-righteous may be moral, but are guilty of lacking character in other areas.

Being immoral

A person who lies and cheats is not considered to be a moral person. This is especially true for someone who deceives his or her spouse and has extramarital affairs.

A public official who takes bribes is considered unethical or immoral.

A major area in morality is pornography. These are primarily lewd and sexually oriented pictures. But also obscenity, hatred, discrimination, and intolerance are moral issues.

Benefits

Being considered moral is important in being respected by others. It can result in having people prefer to deal with you than with someone of questionable morality. Such a person could lose out on getting a job or solidifying a business deal. People have little respect for a person of low morals, no matter what his or her qualifications.

Being moral gives you self-respect. You feel good about yourself when you know you are doing the right thing. On the opposite side of the coin, a female character in an Ernest Hemingway novel was living an immoral life. She was constantly taking baths, because subconsciously she felt "dirty" and was trying to wash away that feeling.

In conclusion

Avoid sexual or ethical misconduct, because others will lose respect for you. Instead, deal with others in a forthright manner, with integrity and family values. You will be respected and feel good about yourself.

Reader Feedback and Questions

Being respected is its own reward

Resources

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Mini-quiz to check your understanding

1. Why respect a moral person?

2. Why don't you respect a man who cheats on his wife?

3. When could a person follow the 10 Commandments and not be admired for his or her character?

If you got all three correct, you are on your way to becoming a Champion in understanding Character. If you had problems, you had better look over the material again.

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Being Moral Shows Character