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Why Should I Be Moral?

Why Should I Be Moral?


The question of morality proves to be a complex interrogatory. Should I
be moral? If I should be, then why? Why is morality important to society? An
assumption can be made that morals derive from a purely religious perspective or
the Golden Rule approach. We are told that it is right to be moral. This is an
ineffective answer, since it does not apply to someone outside the moral circle
(Olsen, 79).

This in mind, there is really no way to prove this too a person who
wants to know why he/she should be moral. According to Olen, the only answer to
them would be "because you are". Happiness could also be included in the list
of moral reasons. I personally feel that this is the best supported reason for
being moral. Although there will be times when the moral decision will not be
pleasurable, it will eventually lead to happiness. Morality is important for
society as a whole, as it makes life livable. Now expanding on the happiness
theory, I will discuss the ideas of Aristotle. Aristotle believed that
happiness is the quality of whole human life. We all have misconceptions about
happiness. Most of us believe that happiness is experiencing a lively feeling
of joy or pleasant feelings. We can be happy at one moment, but not the next.
Aristotle on the other hand said that true happiness includes pleasures, joys,
and successes as well as many pains, griefs, and troubles in ones life. A happy
life is not cause by the pleasures we've had, nor marred by the displeasures
we've had.

Aristotle also contended that children could not be happy as the
requirement for happiness was a complete life. For instance, an old man looking
back on his life and being able to say that it was good, is happiness.

Aristotle defined the things that make happiness as health, wealth,
friendship, and good moral character. Aristotle stated that happiness was also
the highest good leaving nothing more to be desired. Life is made perfect by...