The Significance of a Strong Moral Character
Character is that which reveals moral purpose, exposing the class of things a man chooses and avoids.
— Aristotle
The development of a strong moral character is pivotal to the overall development of an individual. The English word “character” is derived from the Greek charaktêr, which was originally used of a mark impressed upon a coin. Later and more generally, “character” came to mean a distinctive mark by which one thing was distinguished from others, and then primarily to mean the assemblage of qualities that distinguish one individual from another.
Hence moral character can be conceptualized as an individual’s disposition to think, feel, and behave in an ethical versus unethical manner. By definition, moral character is the existence or lack of virtues such as integrity, courage, fortitude, honesty and loyalty. Developing a strong moral character brings many benefits along with it. Those who inculcate a strong moral character find both happiness and success in their life and are clear about their goals. Moreover, people with strong moral character are able to gain the trust of others and their relationships are based on transparency, honesty and mutual respect. Such individuals are more reliable and trustworthy. This, in turn, helps in building a positive reputation and increasing their creditability in the eyes of others. This, in turn opens up new doors and avenues to marvellous opportunities.
Moral character traits are relatively stable, fixed and reliable dispositions of action and affect that ought to be rationally informed Individuals with a strong moral character have a great degree of surety about their actions. They have a clearly recognized goal in mind and the methods required to achieve those goals. Anxiety and nervousness are alien concepts for them.
Moreover, person with strong moral character carve their own path to success and never waste time contemplating on useless matters. Such individuals do not invent excuses to cover their behind. A strong moral character is also instrumental in developing effective leadership qualities. They are visionaries with a “can-do” attitude. They take on the impossible and confront issues and obstacles head-on and make decisions that position successfully for the future.
Humility is another trait that persons with strong moral character possess. They put their egos and self-interests aside and strive to work in such a manner that achieves the greatest goods of all. Even if they fail or are partially successful in their endeavour, they are not deterred from their goals and rather pursue them again with even greater vigour.
People with a strong moral character also become positive life models to others. They set the benchmark for excellence and their life becomes an inspiration for others. It is so because those who build a strong moral character make conscientious adherence to moral values with their actions and personal conduct and not resorting to lofty rhetoric.
To sum up, moral character is perhaps best described as the totality of a person’s dispositions or characteristics that play a role in how the person, morally speaking, behaves. Therefore, moral character is the edifice on which the personal identity of an individual rests. It is our moral character that determines who we are and what actions we are undertaking.