Cultivating Virtuous Character: Exploring Ethical
Development and Moral Agency
A Synthesis Paper
Presented to
Aniceta, Reth
In partial Fulfillment of the Requirements in the Subject
Ethics
By
Supatan, John Wayne O.
May 21, 2023
INTRODUCTION
Can you Imagine a small act of kindness that you saw, where someone gave a selflessly
to a stranger in need and motivated those around them. Such instances of good behavior aren’t the
result of random encounters but rather of intentional moral development and the cultivation of
moral agency. Let's explore the profound process of developing moral character, where even the
smallest deeds can contribute to a world that is happier and more compassionate.
The branch of philosophy called ethics is concerned with moral standards, values, and
conduct. It investigates the issues of what is good and bad, what is right and wrong, and about how
people ought to act in various circumstances. The development of virtuous character, which refers
to the improvement of moral and constructive traits in people, is a crucial element of ethics.
Ancient philosophical traditions, including Aristotle's notion of virtue ethics, are where
the concept of developing virtuous character first emerged. According to Aristotle, moral virtues can
be developed through deliberate practice and habituation rather than being inborn. It is believed
that virtues like honesty, compassion, bravery, and integrity are necessary for living a morally
upright and fulfilling life.
The study of moral agency and ethical development has grown in importance in
modern ethics. The process by which people develop ethical values, beliefs, and behaviors is known
as ethical development, and it is frequently influenced by cultural, societal, and educational factors.
It includes the development of moral judgment, capability for making choices, and internalization of
ethical standards.
On the other hand, moral agency refers to a person's ability to act independently and
responsibly in accordance with their moral convictions and values. It involves having the capacity to
uphold moral principles, accepting accountability for one's deeds, and feeling a sense of personal
agency in doing so. The study of moral agency and ethical development has become big in
importance in modern ethics. The process by which people is developing ethical values, beliefs, and
behaviors is known as ethical development, and it is frequently influenced by cultural, societal, and
educational factors. It includes the development of moral judgment, capability for making choices,
and internalization of ethical standards.
The study of developing moral character, ethical growth, and moral agency focuses on
how people can become actively shape of their moral framework and character, can solve moral
problems, and benefit society. It entails in investigating different ethical theories, moral psychology,
and the interactions between a person's values, societal influences, and personal agency. This
synthesis paper aims to comprehend about how people can cultivate and embody ethical principles
in their lives, fostering a more just, compassionate, and morally aware in society about by examining
the development of virtue and moral agency.
"To lead morally upright and fulfilling lives, contribute to a just society, and resolve
moral conflicts with integrity, people must intentionally develop their moral character and foster
moral agency." This argumentative synthesis statement expresses the idea that moral agency and
virtuous character must be actively developed if one is to advance personally, make moral decisions,
and positively impact society. It prepares the ground for later arguments that investigate the
advantages of good character, the process of ethical growth, and the function of moral agency in
fostering ethical behavior and resolving moral dilemmas.
BODY
It is impossible to over estimate the value of intentional moral development and
developing moral agency in promoting virtue, moral behavior, and positive societal impact. People
must understand how important of actively participating in the process of moral growth and also
fostering their moral agency in a world marked by moral complexities and the ethical quandaries.
Individuals who are consciously working on cultivating virtue and improving their capacity for moral
decision-making improve both their personal lives and society as a whole.
Personal Growth: For one to develop personally and morally, they must intentionally
develop their moral character and foster moral agency. People can develop moral reasoning,
cultivate virtues like empathy, compassion, and integrity, and improve their overall capacity for
making ethical decisions by actively participating in the process of moral development. A sense of
fulfillment, self-awareness, and a better ability to make morally righteous decisions are all influenced
by personal growth.
Ethical Behavior: Intentional moral development and cultivating moral agency have a
direct impact on ethical behavior. When individuals prioritize their moral development and agency,
they become more conscientious about their actions and strive to align their behavior with ethical
principles. This results in increased fairness, honesty, and respect in their interactions with others,
leading to the establishment of trust and harmonious relationships within society.
Positive Societal Impact: The collective impact of individuals who actively engage in
intentional moral development and cultivate moral agency extends to society as a whole. When a
significant number of individuals possess virtuous character and practice ethical behavior, it
contributes to the creation of a more just and compassionate society. Such a society exhibits higher
levels of empathy, cooperation, and social harmony, ultimately benefiting the well-being and
progress of the community.
Resolving Moral Dilemmas: Individuals are better able to navigate and address moral
problems when they intentionally develop their moral character and cultivate moral agency. People
are better able to analyze complex ethical situations, think through the repercussions of their
choices, and make decisions that are consistent with their values and principles when they have
developed their moral reasoning skills. A more morally upright and conscientious society benefits
from individuals who are able to resolve moral dilemmas with integrity and good judgment.
“Behavior Genetics and Attributions of Moral Responsibility.” This is what I found in the
internet it’s a counter argument in my topic. While behavior genetics research provides insights into
the role of genetics in human behavior, moral responsibility is influenced by a range of factors.
Intentional moral development and cultivating moral agency recognize that individuals have the
ability to shape their moral character through conscious efforts and choices. Genetic factors may
contribute to certain traits, but they do not absolve individuals of their moral responsibility.
Moral agency emphasizes the capacity to make deliberate choices and exercise ethical
judgment, independent of genetic influences. Therefore, intentional moral development and
cultivating moral agency remain relevant and necessary for individuals to actively engage in ethical
behavior and contribute positively to society. The interplay of genetics, environment, personal
choices, and moral development is complex, and genetics alone cannot fully explain an individual's
moral character. Thus, intentional moral development and cultivating moral agency play a vital role
in fostering virtuous character, ethical behavior, and positive societal impact by empowering
individuals to shape their moral compass and make conscientious choices, regardless of genetic
predispositions.
“Fostering virtuous character and ethical behavior is a personal choice and does not
have a significant impact on society as a whole.” I also consider this when I was thinking, it also
make sense that people have their own choices . But to me the cumulative impact of individuals who
actively engage in intentional moral development and cultivate moral agency cannot be
underestimated. When a significant number of individuals prioritize virtuous character and ethical
behavior, it creates a ripple effect within society. Acts of kindness, fairness, and integrity inspire
others and contribute to the formation of a more just and compassionate society. Positive role
modeling and ethical leadership influence social norms and encourage others to follow suit,
ultimately leading to a collective societal impact that fosters well-being, cooperation, and harmony.
"Moral development and cultivating moral agency are subjective concepts, and there is
no universal agreement on what constitutes virtuous character and ethical behavior." As I re-read a
portion of the lesson this is what came to my mind. It is true that moral standards and ethical
systems can differ among cultures and people. But there are also similarities among the moral
precepts that emphasize justice, sincerity, decency, and compassion. Individuals are given a
framework to reflect on their values, engage in ethical reasoning, and work towards universal virtues
through intentional moral development and moral agency cultivation. Even though individual moral
standards may differ, pursuing virtue and moral behavior is a shared objective that promotes
development on the individual level and has a positive impact on society.
“Culture’s role in moral behavior plays a big role in society.” While culture undoubtedly
influences moral behavior, it is essential to recognize the capacity of individuals for independent
thought, critical reflection, and the ability to challenge and deviate from cultural norms.
Individuals are not passive recipients of cultural values and norms, but active
participants in the process of moral decision-making. They have the ability to question and critically
examine cultural norms, allowing them to make moral choices that align with their own ethical
principles, even if they deviate from cultural expectations. Cultural diversity within societies exposes
individuals to different perspectives and moral frameworks, enabling them to adopt a more subtlety
and individualized approach to moral behavior. Historical examples demonstrate the power of
individual agency in challenging prevailing cultural norms and driving ethical advancements.
Therefore, while culture plays a role in shaping moral behavior, it is crucial to recognize and value
the capacity of individuals for independent thought and critical reflection in contributing to the
evolution and progress of societal moral behavior.
The argument is essentially that while culture does have an impact on moral behavior,
people have the freedom to question cultural norms, develop their own ethical principles, and make
moral decisions that may differ from what society expects. A more complex and unique view of
morality is further influenced by cultural diversity and exposure to various viewpoints. As well as
challenging cultural norms throughout history, people motivated by personal values have
contributed significantly to shaping moral behavior and fostering positive change. In order to shape
moral behavior within society, individual agency and critical reflection are crucial components
alongside cultural influences.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion up, intentional moral development and moral agency cultivation are
essential for fostering virtue, ethical conduct, and positive societal impact. Personal development,
improved ethical behavior, a positive impact on society, and the capacity to resolve moral
quandaries result from actively participating in the process of moral development and encouraging
moral agency. Intentional moral development and moral agency, in contrast to the counterargument
raised by behavior genetics, remain important and relevant because they enable people to develop
their moral compass and make ethical decisions. The cumulative effect of people prioritizing virtue
and moral conduct has a positive ripple effect on society, inspiring others and promoting a more
compassionate and just society.
In overall, moral agency and intentional moral development are crucial for fostering
ethical behavior, advancing personal moral development, and positively affecting society. The
process of cultivating moral agency and virtue leads to greater social justice and compassion,
personal fulfillment, and fairness and respect in interactions. It enables people to make moral
decisions with integrity and discretion. Human behavior may be influenced by genetics, but moral
agency and intentional moral development emphasize the role that personal responsibility and
choice play in forming moral character. Ultimately, because it motivates others and helps to build a
better society, the cumulative effect of people actively engaging in intentional moral development
and cultivating moral agency cannot be understated.
Let's think about our ability to influence others as we reflect on the importance of
moral agency and intentional moral development. How can we actively foster morality and virtue in
our own lives? What part can we play in encouraging and persuading others to act similarly? Let's
make an effort to be agents of good change and accept our obligation to contribute to a world that
is more compassionate and just. We can have a significant impact that goes far beyond ourselves if
we do this.
REFERENCES
https://elms.sti.edu/files/3647863/02_Handout_1(10).pdf?lmsauth=807859406bd01a8cab105762
b073bc8869fcc826
https://iep.utm.edu/aristotle-ethics/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6525787/