Scheovil R.

Nava BIT-Auto 3 A

Reflection Paper on Morality

Morality refers to the set of standards that enable people to live

cooperatively in groups. It’s what societies determine to be “right” and
“acceptable.”

Sometimes, acting in a moral manner means individuals must sacrifice

their own short-term interests to benefit society. Individuals who go against
these standards may be considered immoral.

Morality isn’t fixed. What’s considered acceptable in your culture might not
be acceptable in another culture. Geographical regions, religion, family, and life
experiences all influence morals. 

Most morals aren’t fixed. They usually shift and change over time.

Ideas about whether certain behaviors are moral—such as engaging in

pre-marital sex, entering into same-sex relationships, and using cannabis—
have shifted over time. While the bulk of the population once viewed these
behaviors as “wrong,” the vast majority of the population now finds these
activities to be “acceptable.”

In some regions, cultures, and religions, using contraception is

considered immoral. In other parts of the world, some people consider
contraception the moral thing to do, as it reduces unplanned pregnancy,
manages the population, and reduces the risk of STDs.

Both laws and morals are meant to regulate behavior in a community

to allow people to live in harmony. Both have firm foundations in the concept
that everyone should have autonomy and show respect to one another.

Legal thinkers interpret the relationship between laws and morality

differently. Some argue that laws and morality are independent. This means
that laws can’t be disregarded simply because they’re morally indefensible. 3

Others believe law and morality are interdependent. These thinkers

believe that laws that claim to regulate behavioral expectations must be in
harmony with moral norms. Therefore, all laws must secure the welfare of
the individual and be in place for the good of the community.