Morality
/məˈræləti/
Definitions
2 meaningsPrinciples concerning the distinction between right and wrong or good and evil, or the quality of being in accord with standards of right or good conduct.
/məˈræləti/
Principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong.
She questioned the morality of the company's practices.
💡 Simply: It's like your internal rulebook for how to treat people and act in the world. It's what helps you tell the difference between good and bad, like when you choose to share your toys or when you help someone in need.
👶 For kids: Knowing the difference between what is right and what is wrong.
More Examples
He tried to impose his own morality on others.
The film explores the complex issues of morality in a dystopian society.
How It's Used
"Philosophers debate the foundations of morality."
"The morality of capital punishment is often questioned."
A particular system of values and principles of conduct, especially one held by a specified person, society, or culture.
/məˈræləti/
A particular system of values and principles of conduct.
Their actions were in accordance with their religious morality.
💡 Simply: It's like having a set of rules that guide how you behave in different situations. For example, a school might have rules about fairness, and that becomes a part of the school's morality.
👶 For kids: Your special set of rules about how to behave.
More Examples
The movie challenges traditional notions of morality.
He had his own sense of morality that was different from his peers.
How It's Used
"Different cultures have different codes of morality."
"He struggled with reconciling his personal morality with his professional duties."
From Latin moralitas, from moralis 'relating to manners or character'. The term evolved to encompass principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong or good and evil.
The term 'morality' has been used for centuries to discuss questions of right and wrong, with early references appearing in philosophical and religious texts. Its meaning has evolved over time, with an increasing emphasis on societal and individual codes of conduct.
Memory tip
Think of a compass guiding your actions – it points towards the direction of moral behavior.