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Moral Education (Degree MPW 2153)

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CHAPTER 1: UNDERSTANDING MORALS DEFINATION OF ETHICS, MORAL AND VALUES Ethic

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Moral

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Value

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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 ‘moral’ 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)

The term ‘morality’ 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’. Morality is a social instrument that guides individuals and groups in their daily lives. It requires individuals and group to follow it. It helps people to behave rationally as members of society. Morality 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.

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Other definitions of morality are: •

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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. Kohlberg (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

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Normative Ethics-‘Attempts to give coherent or logical, systematic and justifiable answers to moral question’-V. Grassian (1981)

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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.

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i.e.: ‘Abortion is an immoral act’ is a normative statement.

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Frankene says that: -In 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 I s called moral value judgment or aretaic judgement.) Descriptive Statements

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They are not concerned with judgment of moral values.

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For examples: 1. “In 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. “I am a doctor.” 4. “This is a watermelon.” (All these examples did not involve any moral judgment.)



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Sometimes we can change a non-normative statement into a normative statement about the same matter as in the table: NO 1

MATTER Suicide

DESCRIPTIVE Suicide cases have increased

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Parents

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General Election

Parents have authority in the family Fewer people are registering themselves as voters

NORMATIVE Killing oneself as a personal sacrifices is permitted Always obey the orders of your parents Good citizens must register themselves as voters

BASIC CONCEPT OF VALUE

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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.

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Morality is a type of value, even not all values are moral.

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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”

Examples:

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 samestealing is wrong, bad character) even the number of money stolen different) 2) In 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

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For human, value can be seen, appraised and felt through the subject's speech, movement, conducts, speech, attitude and actions.

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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 •

It 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 Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (LUCT)


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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 •

It 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 •

value as an attribute. i.e. Masa itu emas. means...time as being of precious value

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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 Values • • •

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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)

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Intrinsic Values 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 loyalty (intrinsic values) But, we may use his/her expertise to achieve our goals (extrinsic values) i.e. if they are designer, they can create an advertisement for our company Subjective values • • • •

Values accepted or rejected by someone based on individual's opinion Attack on Iraq by U.S. Britain's View-U.S. should attack Iraq for a long term peace France's View-U.S. should not attack IraqIt may kill a lot of innocent people

Objective values • • •

Relative value • • •

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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 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

Absolute values • • • • •

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




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WAWASAN 2020 (VISION 2020)

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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 Second

Establishing a united Malaysian nation made up of one Bangsa Malaysia Creating a psychologically liberated, secure and developed Malaysian society

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Fostering and developing a mature democratic society

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Establishing a fully moral and ethical society

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Establishing a matured liberal and tolerant society

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Establishing a scientific and progressive society

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Establishing a fully caring society

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Ensuring an economically just society, in which there is a fair and equitable distribution of the wealth of the nation

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Establishing a prosperous society with an economy that is fully competitive, dynamic, robust and resilient

Our Focus

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The fourth challenge 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 challenge 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 Second Third Fourth Fifth

: The belief in God : Loyalty to the King and the country : Upholding the constitution : Upholding the law : 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. It is not the answer. It is but a means to that answer. By keeping it, every Malaysian is set on the road to a disciplined society.



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Our Focus Fifth : Good behavior and morality. 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 Family .There obviously has to be much value restructuring in the home, which is the most important educational institution in any society

2. The Educational 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. Public 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 several ideas might be worth pondering • • • • •

It 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. In 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



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CHAPTER 2: THEORIES AND VALUE SYSTEM THEORY 1: SOCIAL MORALITY SYSTEM Definition: Custom, habit, courtesy, character are connected with regulations and standards followed by society. • •

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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 Societal norm and regulations tend to control security of society and protect the members' welfare rather than serving the interest of an individual. Other examples of social morality system can be seen in the religious 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.

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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. • It 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



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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 India 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. Imperialism 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)



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THEORY 2: THEORY OF PERSONALITY VIRTUE. Rachels •

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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. Rachels offers the following: “A virtue [is] a trait of character that is good for a person to have.” (Rachels, 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. Rachels offers two answers to this question: “Virtues are needed to conduct our lives well…[and] they are qualities needed for successful human living.” (Rachels, 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.) • • •

Individuality 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 Individuality honorable is an inclination to do with a purpose. It 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 @ Feeling Spend Anger Conversation

More excessive

Middle way

Extremely Less

Extravagant Angry Sketch

Generous Patience Wise

Stingy Unenthusiastic Ashamed

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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. If not it is rash considered as who person coward's - Aristotle Individuality honorable play various roles that cannot be overlooked by prosperity for the live person -Wallace (1978)

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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.



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Formation of personality

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During childhood: 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 selfinterest When we reach adolescence: 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. It is only when we become mature and rational adults 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) It provides moral motivation, the doing of our duty not just out of duty but also out of kindness, compassion etc. 2) It 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 I be unvirtuous in some way if I cared as much for my students as I do for my own children?



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THEORY 3: THEORY OF TELEOLOGICAL ETHICS Definition: a value is right or wrong depends on the final result 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 Utilitarianism Definition: that actions are right if they are useful or for the greatest happiness of the greatest number of people •

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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: Intensity 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 If 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. It 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.

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“Classical Utilitarianism- the theory defended by Bentham and Mill- 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 Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (LUCT)


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2. In assessing consequences, the only thing that matters is the amount of happiness or 3.

unhappiness that is caused. Everything else is irrelevant. Thus right actions are those that produce the greatest balance of happiness over unhappiness. In 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 Mill 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 Utilitarianism Act

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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. If 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. It will bring great pleasure to a lot of people ; so can be permissible even involved the means of stealing

Utilitarianism Laws • •

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Meaning: we should follow or obey rules, which will maximize pleasure for all concerned. It 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 2

Extremely difficult to determine whether that is good for other 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 only self-interest be considers whether right or wrong of an action is special for the consequence of the individual



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Egoism or selfishness can be defined as concern with one's own interest or seeking or concentrating on one's own advantages or pleasure or well being without regard for other.

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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.

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Psychological egoism Is a descriptive theory, which states how people act. It consider all peoples are selfish •

Egoism can be divided into Ethical 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 theoretical 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



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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 results of action. • • • • • • • • •

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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. In 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 • Principle of Goodwill (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 goodhearted, 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 selfinterest. • 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 Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (LUCT)


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2. Existentialism's Principle • •

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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 Paul 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



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CHAPTER 3: THE VALUES OF RELIGION INTRODUCTION Malaysia has three main races and many other communities. The main religions and beliefs in Malaysia are Islam, 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 Indian 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 •

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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 livelihoodThere 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



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Buddhist Teaching Moral Values

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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

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Buddhist stresses the importance of the environment in the development and formation of human individuality. It 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 kill or cause harm to other living beings. The precept implies acting non-violently wherever possible, and many Buddhist are vegetarian for this reason

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Second Precept: One should 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.

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Third Precept: One also should avoid sexual misconduct. The purpose is to preserve the respectability of the family of each person concerned and to safeguard its sanctity and inviolability

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Fourth Precept: Not to lie 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.

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Fifth Precept: abstain from alcohol and drugs that cloud 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.



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MORAL VALUES •

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Buddha's follower's obligation is dana (concession) to whoever that is poor and need assistance You perform real charity if you can give freely without expecting anything in return. The essence of true charity is to give something without expecting anything in return for the gift. If 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 personal 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 all creatures. In 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 In 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. In a sense, this kind of love can also be considered selfish because the love is limited to particular people and does not encompass others.In 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.'



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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 Holy 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…

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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

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THE RESPONSE: RECEIVE CHRIST The follower of Christian must trust Jesus Christ and receive Him by personal surrender and invitation

The Bible Old Testament • Genesis tells how God in this world created the first man and woman. •

It 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 • It contains the teaching of Jesus Christ himself at strengthening the law and commands sent down by God. •

It 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)



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ISLAM

• • • •

Islam is the youngest of the world’s major religions. But Muslim didn’t agree. They belive Islam exists since the age of Adam. The physical, intellectual, social and moral development of a person is emphasized in Islam. 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 Al-Qur’an is Islam’s Holy book as original teaching of Allah. It 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 It 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 • It manifested through 5 pillars of Islam:

1. The Profession of Faith:It is the condition for membership in the Muslim community. Normally during a typical day, a Muslim has to repeat to himself/herself the profession “I bear witness that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is his prophet.”

2. The Five Daily Prayers: There are five prescribed daily prayers or salat. It 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. Almsgiving: Almsgiving also known as “Zakat” is a religious obligation that is considered as an expression of ones devotion to God. It 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 Islamic tradition strongly encourages charity and to provide their moral obligations to the poor, orphans, and widows.



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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. Pilgrimage 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, Id al-adha. Ramadan and Id al-adha are the two major Islamic festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide. Moral Behavior (akhlaq) • Actions or deed, which have been done for long time and accepted by society. i.e respect to guests, kindhearted to parents Islamic Moral Values • Al-Qur’an is a yardstick to gauge Islamic Values, later on should be understand practiced by all Muslim • Islamic morality is founded in aqidah (faith).It 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 • Social Responsibility The teachings of Islam 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, Islam lays emphasis on specific acts of kindness and defines the responsibilities and rights within various relationships. In 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 Islamic 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 • Cleanliness and health care • Behavioral traits that are despicable: 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

Examples of the Islamic Moral • Respond immediately to someone’s call • Be considerate of other people’s feeling • Respond to request for aids for the needy Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (LUCT)

Moral Education (Degree MPW 2153) • • • • • • • • • •

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


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HINDUISM • •

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It is the oldest religion in the world It 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

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Atheism (no God), Monotheism (believe in One God called Brahma), Pantheism (God create everything outside of his part of body, Polytheism (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: (Religious people, educators) (administrator, defense officials) (farmers, economists) (slaves, menial laborers)

• Brahmin • Kshatriya • Vaihya • Shudra

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-It gives the idea of something that maintains, gives order and cohesion to any given reality, and ultimately to nature, society and he individual. It 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 Brahmanical 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 like 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



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SIKHISM Founder : Guru Nanak 1 and succeeded by a group of 10 teachers. Holy Book : Guru Granth sahib Ji. •

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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 Islam 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) • In 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 Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (LUCT)


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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 Islamic 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 • It is taboo to bring a mirror because storm and rain will result. CONFUCIUSM • •

It 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. I.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



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Moral Reasoning

PRINCIPALISTIC ETHICS FORM

Moral feeling

ETHICAL DIMENSION

Moral WEEK 7 action CHAPTER 4: MORAL PERSON -

MORAL FORM

SITUATIONAL ETHICS FORM

THE MORAL PERSON MORAL CONTENT

SOCIETAL RULES

HUMAN CHARACTERISTIC

Raising Standard of living Developing intellect

Feeling of guilt & disapproval

Protecting human life

Intrinsic motivation

Avoiding moral deviation

Believed importance

Preserving social order

Admiration and esteem

Preserving peace

Special terminology

INTRODUCTION • 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. Protecting human right • For instance, if parent who sees morality as a human obligation in justification following the rules and the law Believed willSaving behavetime like and a dictator energywho is unlikely to compromise when teaching his children about morality in life • If 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 democratic



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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. • If 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. • In 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

Moral or ethics has content. The contents divided into two aspects

Societal Rules

Human Characteristics

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.

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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

Customary Morality Reflective Morality Customary Rules andrefers regulations provideorcustomary morality, which is different reflective Customary morality to standards rules of our Reflective moralityfromcalls for morality. reasoning and ancestors. An individual accepts and act accordingly consideration of the individual. The main thing about because they are prescribed norms. This customary reflective morality is to be familiar with the reasoning morality cannot be disobeyed or challenged. An and then to observe or oppose the customary rule. This individual is expected to conduct himself within the leads to the formation specific criteria to judge the way boundaries of customary morality. to act. Here, the justification of the customary directions Limkokwing University ofmust Creative be carefully Technology considered. Reflective morality (LUCT) stresses on reasoning to observe and examine customary rules before acting on them.

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Hence, the main difference between customary morality and reflective morality is not what is believed but the reason that believes is preserved. So, customary morality always defends itself with statements like “This is traditional” or “This is the way we act” or “This is how we have been taught”

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We can say in a moral system, the conduct of an individual is rule-governed, i.e, that all actions of a similar kind are considered in the same way. Consistency and reciprocity mark the attitude of a moral agent towards his own action, and that of 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 specific norms. For example, the welfare and needs of other people are things that will be given attention to by the moral agent. He considers himself in the same way as he considers other people and he sympathizes with other people. Such an individual realizes that there is a need for people in the community to form criteria to streamline interaction between one another and that an agreement can be achieve based on mutual needs.

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29 The importance and functions rules of society • Improve the standard of living of the people. . • Develop the intellectual capacity of the people so that the function more effectively. • Protect human life • Defend human rights and people’s welfare • Prevent degradation in behavior and morals of the society

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Stabilize condition in the society Create and preserve social order Maintain peace in the society Preserve social harmony, and Save time and effort when making decisions for oneself or other people

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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.

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In 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.

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In 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.



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An individual should have virtuous characteristics that distinguish him as a moral person. This statement is important and supported by many philosophers.

J.D WALLACE (1978) says that virtuous characteristics are important to a person and to his tranquility in life in the society.

Z.FENG (1993) says that the development of a virtuous character in a pupil during lesson in school should be the main aim of the curriculum of Moral Education. Educationist in Western countries agrees that virtuous character should be the main moral content in the shaping of an individual.

•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.

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 from doing it. Nevertheless, intrinsic motivation used in this manner is usually not encouraged by society. The most positive effect of 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 feels uncomfortable, sinful and remorseful. 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 if he himself is the victim of the action). Similarly, an individual does not like other people to disagreeing with his actions. If he knows that other people do not agree with him, he becomes uneasy and feels sinful. However the disapproval of others will improve the ethical code and make it more effective 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 feels it should become part of his nature. For instance, individuals may believe that rendering first aid to an accident victim (intrinsic motivation) is so important (because it saves life) that he may want to include that as one of his personal characteristics. This means that he has a perceived or believed importance about rendering first aid.



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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. In this case, the soldier has done something beyond what is required by basic motivation. Acts like this are sometimes called acts of supererogation. 5. Special Terminology It 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.

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6. Believe justification An individual must have justification for his motivation, sinful feeling, disagreeable attitude, admiration etc. An example of such a justification concern religion. If a person holds strongly to the teaching of a religion and considers its moral principles as god’s demands, he will satisfied with his morality and feels rational to act in a way that may be opposed to his own interest in the long run. •

According to the Brandt, if a person possesses all these, he definitely has ethical code. However, if he possesses fewer than six of these qualities, he may, or may not, have ethical code. It depends on who evaluate him.

31 MORAL FORM •

Principle of 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.

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The development of science and technology, particularly information technology (IT), has resulted in closer communication among the people of the world. The world has become more complex. The world we have today is made up of many made up of many countries with people of various nationalities, races and ethnic groups. This plurality means that there are many types of laws, various rules, ethical codes, customary practices, cultures and administrative systems.

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As a result, people in each society cannot run from their own morality questions, and have to solve their own moral problems, especially the moral dilemmas that constantly disturb their thinking and emotions.

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For example, for an individual who lives in the modern society but is still influenced by the rules of his traditions and customs, there is possibility that he cannot resolve the problems he faces in his modern life with the rules that are quite out-dated but still influential in his community. This situation does not arise if the individual is brave enough to oppose such rules and make decision without concern for the views of his community.



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V.GRASSIAN (1981) says, to resolve a moral dilemma, apart of using your intelligence (virtuous characteristics) and referring 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 justify other moral principles. He should also ensure that these principles do not conflict 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

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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 of these, these two principles will be used as examples in the discussion of ethical forms.

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The term “justice” comes from the Latin word “Justus” which means “law, right”. Today justice is used in the sense of “the quality of being righteous, rectitude in partiality, firmness”.

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According to Kamus Dewan, justice is quality that is fair and impartial. Hence the concept of justice concerns all actions and conduct of a person that are fair to himself as well as to other people. In other words, an action that is unfair (injustice) does not benefit certain people because such actions cause dissatisfaction and anger against the person who performs injustice.

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The principle of “altruism: is also an important ethical principle used as a reference in making moral THOMAS NAGEL (1970) in his book “The possibility of Altruism” explains altruism as an attitude or decisions. action which pleases or benefits 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 people’s position and share his feelings and emotions as if they were his own, and be open minded and tolerant.

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W.K. FRANKENE (1973) says, that sometimes an individual claims satisfaction not for himself, but for other people. i.e., self-sacrifice. Altruism believes that there is altruism in people, i.e. that people just want to do some good for others. 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.



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Situational Ethics Form • • •

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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 fully armed with “ethical maxims” and he treats them with respects as illuminators of these problems. just the same he is prepared in any situation to compromise them or set them aside in the situation if love seems better served by doing so. Ethical maxims here are the ethical rules or principles used to deal with problems based on specific situations.

Moral Dimensions We can break up ethics into three dimensions, viz. reasoning, feeling and performance. These dimensions are illustrated in the diagram above:

Ethical Dimension

Moral Reasoning

Thinking & Judging

Moral Feeling

Emotion & Feeling

Moral Performance

Behavior & Action


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Rational, Free, Normative, Accurate, Sharp, Creative, Innovative, Critical Empathetic, Altruistic, Sympathetic, Generous, Loving, Compassionate, Sentimental, Energetic Responsible, Dedicated, Caring, Co-operative.


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Analysis of the three dimensions: •

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Moral Reasoning To be able to make moral reasoning, i.e. to think and judge rationally and freely.

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Moral Performance To be able to conduct oneself in a manner that is morally correct, i.e. to act in a fully responsible way, according to one’s ability, in making decisions based on careful reasoning and moral emotions.

Moral Feeling To have moral emotions like conscience and sensitivity over feelings of what is wrong or shameful, of anxiety, sympathy, empathy, generosity, love, compassion, motivated by what is altruistic and correct. Such feeling will enable the individual to act morally; so moral emotions are important to control one’s behavior and actions, and prevent one from doing anything that is antisocial. For example, sympathy and empathy cause a person to always help the poor or the handicapped without thinking about his own interest.


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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

In 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.

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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.

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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.

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This is an example of divergence-deontological consideration advise him not to divorce his wife, (1st reason); egoistic considerations (2nd reason) make him decide to break up the relationship.

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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. In short, conflict happen in situations that when you follow one set of recommendation, you are prevented to from following another set of recommendations.



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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 • • • •

In 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. Internal 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



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Examples of Conflict: 1. Conflict between Justice and Social Utility • 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. Conflict 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

Social Dilemma • • • •

Factor that threaten the future of mankind. i.e. nuclear weapon , green house effect, depletion of natural resource, is an examples. It 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 Examples of Social Dilemma: Tragedy of Common It 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. In 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.

Conflict between Groups • •

It 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 Israel and Palestinian claims the right of territories.



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Cause of Conflict: 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 ethical thinking conflict: •

Imagine 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.

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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?

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Ideas 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.

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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. • • • • • •

Value Analysis 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. Individually 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



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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 conflict

Effects

for each alternative action, what are the effects which are likely to happen

Results

What results can be obtained from those effects? what are the proof?

Judgment

which results is better? What are the criteria for the choice?

Decision on action

what is the decision?

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Case of Kubula (Supplement 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:" It 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 riotsby 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 Building Strategy • If 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. Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (LUCT)

Moral Education (Degree MPW 2153) •

• • • • • • • •

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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 Dissolution • 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. • If 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. • It has limitations. • It 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 • In 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.


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