August 26, 2010

Character and Ethics

Character and Ethics
The Basics
[source: 42 Explore]

Easier - Character is the combination of personal qualities that make each person unique. Teachers, parents, and community members help children build positive character qualities. For example, the six pillars of character are trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.

Ethics is the study of human actions. It deals with issues such as defining "right and wrong" as well as the gray area in between. Ethics seeks answers to questions like what is "good behavior" and what should be valued?

Harder - Character deals with how people think and behave related to issues such as right and wrong, justice and equity, and other areas of human conduct.

Schools often have character education programs that focus on the qualities of character that are honored by most cultures and traditions. Character education is the development of knowledge, skills, and abilities that encourage children and young adults to make informed and responsible choices.

Ethics are a philosophical reflection of moral beliefs and practices. The Greek and Roman philosophers were particularly interested in discussions related to ethics. Religions and faiths each have their own ethical systems to guide their people. Ethical decision making involves the process of making informed decisions when faced with difficult dilemmas with many alternative solutions.

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