Whether simply stated or examined, morality cannot be defined simply by looking at it from one or two perspectives. It must be recognized that there are several factors that influence the judgment between “right” and “wrong”. Only after taking into account everything that might change the definition of righteousness can we begin to define morality. Harriet Baber, a professor at San Diego State University, defines morality as “the system by which we determine right and wrong conduct.” Baber refers to morality as a process or method when he calls it a “system.” By saying "we" she then means that this concept does not only apply to her but also to everyone else. Through morality, according to her, one can look at an action, an idea or a situation and determine its rightness and consequences. Acting morally means thinking and acting in such a way that you always consider, support, and try to improve the overall situation. well being; furthermore, such thoughts and actions must occur because of moral intentions, not just because it is necessary. Furthermore, there are predefined rules for the common good and these rules help in moral judgment. Such rules would include “thou shalt not kill,” “thou shalt not steal,” and “thou shalt not lie.” These do not exist to provide an advantage or cause a disadvantage: they simply exist for the benefit of each individual. Having morality means that you must always adhere to these rules, regardless of the consequences, who is affected, or how it happens, because they only ensure the greatest good for all. However, one's moral standards must also take into account those of others. The term “ethics” discusses how one's morality must take that of other members of the group or community t...... middle of paper... consideration before establishing a definition of morality. Because there are so many correct points, ideas, and arguments about moral theory, it is not possible to arrive at a clear and concise definition of morality. Works Cited Baber, Harriet. "Morality and moral theories". Morality and moral theories. Np, nd Web. November 27, 2013.Johnson, Robert, Johnson,. "Kant's Moral Philosophy". Stanford University. Stanford University, 23 February 2004. Web. 27 November 2013. "Kant's Ethics in Brief:." Kant's moral philosophy. Np, nd Web. November 26, 2013.Plato. Republic. Trans. Robin Waterfield. Oxford [England: Oxford UP, 1993. Print.Sweet, William. "Encyclopedia of Philosophy on the Internet". Bentham, Jeremy []. Np, April 11, 2001. Web. November 27, 2013. Velasquez, Manuel, Claire Andre, S.J., Thomas Shanks, and Michael J. Meyer. "What is ethics?" What is ethics? Np, 2010. Web. 27 November. 2013.
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