MORAL AGENCY Meaning and
Definition
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Moral agency is a concept within moral philosophy that refers to an individual's capacity and responsibility to make moral judgments and choices, and to act in accordance with moral principles. It is the ability to discern between right and wrong and the freedom to act upon one's ethical convictions.
In essence, moral agency involves the ability to deliberate about moral issues, consider different courses of action, and make decisions based on moral reasoning. It encompasses the understanding of one's actions and their potential consequences, as well as the recognition of personal responsibility for those actions.
Moral agency implies that individuals have the autonomy to act in accordance with their moral beliefs and are accountable for the choices they make. It recognizes that moral judgments are not merely subjective or culturally determined, but rather based on universally valid ethical principles.
A person with moral agency is expected to exercise their moral judgment with integrity, honesty, and fairness, considering the well-being and rights of others. It involves self-reflection, empathy, and the willingness to take responsibility for one's actions and their impact on others and society as a whole.
To summarize, moral agency refers to an individual's capability to understand moral principles, make moral choices, and take responsibility for their actions based on those principles. It is a fundamental aspect of human autonomy and a crucial component of ethical decision-making and behavior.
Etymology of MORAL AGENCY
The word "moral" traces back to the Latin word "moralis" which means "relating to manners or customs". It evolved from the Latin word "mos" meaning "custom" or "manner".
The word "agency" has its roots in the Latin word "agens", which is the present participle of "agere" meaning "to do" or "to act". It is also derived from the Latin word "agens" meaning "a person or thing that acts or has the power to act".
When combined, "moral agency" refers to the ability of an individual or entity to make moral judgments and decisions, to act in accordance with moral principles, and to be held accountable for their moral conduct. Therefore, the etymology of "moral agency" combines the concepts of customs or manners with the capacity to act morally.
