Final Exam
Jessica
ETH/316
Michael Scott
Due June 30, 2014

Question #1

Introduction Ethics are considered the science in which one bases their beliefs, while morals are the choices made based on those beliefs. To be considered a virtuous person one must understand and demonstrate the “acceptable” beliefs of their society, by maintaining their personal character traits and standards, and by making and demonstrating good choices in their personal and professional lives. A person who is ethical and moral may not be considered virtuous, because of the differences between the three concepts.
Virtuous
Virtuous is used to describe a person who strives for excellence, in both their ethical and moral behaviors. Virtue, demonstrated as one who has good character traits, is often associated with ethical and moral beliefs, which is necessary for people to function in society with distinction. Virtuous examples are demonstrated in one who shows honesty, forgiveness, kindness, and respectfulness; among other exemplary character traits. A person who is virtuous shows commitment to doing the right thing, no matter what the cost; personal or not. Someone who is virtuous does not bend to desires, urges, or impulses, but acts according to their principles and values.
Ethics
Ethics are the rules and principles that govern the actions of people in comparative societies, while morality may differ from person to person. Ethics are described in our reading as, “what constitutes right and wrong, or good and bad behaviors,” and is understood when all of our ethical decisions are guided by the application of our ethical principles, (Boylan, 2009). Potter Stewart, an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court once said, “Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have a right to do and what is right to do.”
Morality
Morality, as described in our