Essay Sample on Social Philosophy - Ethics

Introduction

The value system of an individual or a community sets norms that distinguish right from wrong. Members of society behave in a manner that is either good or bad. Behavior that is undesired is termed as unethical conduct while ethical behavior signifies positive actions. Most communities share moral values that guide the activities and mannerisms of human beings. Principles such as honesty, fairness, and respect for all are part of most societies' moral baseline. Others include virtues such as loyalty, trustworthiness, and integrity (Kant 393). Possession of these values implies that an individual or a community has a set of moral principles that they obey. Whereas the ethical standards differentiate good from evil, failure to possess genuine goodwill nullifies the essence of the values.

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Regardless of the level of adherence of an individual to the virtues that distinguish evil and ideal elements in society, people are susceptible to the influence of the human mind. In most instances, possession of traits such as honesty, courage, and resilience are a source of joy and pride to an individual. However, the happiness that comes with the recognition of one's unique qualities can lead to arrogance. When an individual does not keep their ego in check, there is a likelihood that the pride undermines the virtues that created their happiness (Kant 393). In such an instance, the element of goodwill plays a crucial role in ensuring that a decent person does not change to an evil person. Thus, in the absence of concern for others, morally upright conduct such honest and courageous actions of a person become null.

While human beings may strive to do good unto others and seek happiness, by all means, their goodwill fades upon the realization that it is difficult to achieve true contentment. The more dedicated to adhering to the value systems of society an individual is; the more happiness eludes them. Thus, it becomes a tiring, endless cycle. The belief that human beings have a higher purpose for existing on earth other than seeking gratification causes a decline in the levels of kindness. People develop bitter feelings for failing to attain contentment given their noble deeds (Kant 396). Gradually, they lose the resolve to behave ethically and develop envy for those who uphold morality. As a result, the notion that one has failed to fulfill their purpose in life creates resentment that invalidates their desirable actions.

Another critical element that questions the existence of kindheartedness arises when human beings act ethically while in the line of duty. Skepticism stems from the idea that some people uphold morality since the nature of their responsibilities compels them. Others conduct themselves in a specific due to hidden motivations that differ from one person to another. In other cases, individuals may act desirably regardless of requirements of their duties. For instance, the level of one's commitment to communicating without lying may vary with different groups of people (Kant 398). Thus, the individual upholds honesty depending on their desires and motives. In such scenarios, it is critical for grace and kindliness to prevail if the actions of a person are to qualify as moral.

Everyone and everything strives to achieve wellness. Goodness, as the end goal of many activities and products, relies on the existence of goodwill to drive all things towards achieving it. The trait characterizes all the subsequent pursuits of humankind, from the bottom to the top level acts (Aristotle 1). When motivated by goodwill, people can learn to control their desires and mannerisms. Thus, they can behave desirably without developing a negative perspective that their kind nature is an exercise in futility. Adherence to ethical standards of behavior for the wellness of other people other than oneself sets individuals apart from one another. A person who is morally upright is guided by logic delays gratification of one's selfish purposes for the sake of the community.

Happiness, as a concept, is a contentious issue that people have to deal with in the pursuit of doing for others and oneself. Contentions over what happy living entails reveal the absence of good-heartedness when individuals apply their unique traits to serve others. For instance, a wealthy member of the society who has earned the respect of several people identifies happiness from a unique perspective. Alternatively, a person is not wealthy in the same environment has a different view of what pleasure is (Aristotle 3). With an element of kindheartedness and the need to maintain one's honor, the affluent may come to the aid of the underprivileged. Since they do not always act on the needs of others, they fail to contribute to resolving the problems of others unless when it is necessary for them.

There is a belief that pursuing something without attaching other needs or goals to it is a more fulfilling experience (Aristotle 7, 8). For instance, when the end target of a charitable deed is to gather funds to assist the needy truthfully, one should not expect to receive recognition and praise for such a noble act. Instead of prioritizing acknowledgment, a person inspired by kindness and concern for others puts the goal of helping the disadvantaged first. In such a situation, the presence of goodwill determines the nature of the reaction that people solicit as they carry out philanthropic activities. A philanthropist who regulates his selfish needs and ego can achieve a trait such as happiness that eludes so many individuals. The person then enjoys true contentment and joy for placing others ahead of self.

Feelings of happiness, self-sufficiency, and relevance in society create the impression that one has fulfilled their purpose in life (Aristotle 8). By upholding ethical values such as honesty, integrity, generosity and showing compassion for the unfortunate, individuals derive joy. It is gratifying to possess and utilize values and virtues in service of others. It is the moral obligation of all human beings to work towards improving the quality of life of all members of the community. Traits such as fairness, concern, and respect for others make the human population conscious of the needs of the less fortunate. When driven by a pure desire to serve others, happiness becomes a fruit of moral actions. Besides, good behavior that arises from a genuine wish to help the community improves life satisfaction.

Conclusion

In conclusion, leading a purposeful life characterized by positive behaviors is not a smooth action. Practicing ethical conduct like upholding integrity, honesty and fairness in daily life activities are challenging. Leading a moral life by operating within the standards set by an individual or the society requires consistent goodwill to guide one's actions. In the absence of this quality, attempts to uphold morality are in vain. Without untainted kindness, activities that strive to promote goodness in society are futile. Having genuine compassion distinguishes people who adhere to set rules for selfish reasons from the right persons in the community. Thus, possession of genuine goodwill reinforces the importance of ethics and values.

Works Cited

Kant, Immanuel. Moral Law: Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals. 393-405.

Aristotle: The Nicomachean Ethics. 1-30. Book 1, Chapter 4&5.