LESSON 6

HOW IT DEFINES MORAL BEHAVIOR

KEY TAKEAWAYS

 Culture is the integrated pattern of human knowledge, beliefs and behaviors. It is people's way of life.
 Culture consists of non material and material culture. Non-material culture includes language, values, rules, knowledge and meanings
shared by members of society. Material culture refers to the physical objects that a society produces such as tools and works of art.
 Culture is learned not inherited. It is acquired through enculturation, inculturation and acculturation.
 Enculturation is the process of learning the components of life - material . as well as non-material- in one's culture.
 Inculturation is making the Gospel take roots in a culture and introducing that transformed culture to Christianity.
 Acculturation is the process by which people learn and adapt a new culture.
 Culture influences the human person, who is the moral agent.
 Culture affects human behavior. Not all cultural practices are morally acceptable. Examples are the culture of vengeance and low regard
for the African women in comparison to the African men.
ACTIVITY
1. Brainstorming - When you hear the word "culture" what comes to your mind at once? List them down then compare with your
seatmate. Form groups of four and compare your answers. As groups in a class compare your answers to come up with the final list of
common items.
 When I hear the word "culture", I immediately think about traditions, values, beliefs, languages, customs, cuisine, rituals,
music, art, and lifestyles.
2. Marriage Practices - Give different marriage practices as a result of culture.
 Some marriage practices as a result of culture include: arranged marriages, dowry, wedding ceremonies, family
integration, communal ceremonies, celebration of achievements, and bride price.
ANALYSIS
For Activity # 1
1. Go back to your class list. Are these items acquired by heredity or culture. The Hun A have no learning and practice?
 No, these items are not necessarily acquired by heredity or culture; there may also be learning and practice involved.
2. If there is one word that would embrace all of these on your list questions #1 and #2, what would that be?

The word that best encompasses both questions is "inheritance".
For Activity #2
1. Explain the "why" behind these different marriage practices. Are the Intern morally acceptable?
 The reasons for different marriage practices vary depending on the culture or society, and can include traditions, beliefs,
religious or spiritual values, and economic or social concerns. Depending on one's own culture and personal values, some
of these practices may be deemed morally acceptable and others not. Ultimately, the answer to whether they are morally
acceptable will depend on the individual's opinion and the context in which the practices are being performed.
APPLICATION
1. Culture affects human behavior. Is this proven in this instance when one spends so much money for rebonding of her hair or buying an
expensive Nike pair of shoes instead of using the money to pay her tuition in school so can take the final exams (which is most urgent)?
  Yes, this instance is an example of the effect of culture on human behavior. Many people prioritize certain cultural
values, such as vanity or appearance, over more important things like education and meeting their financial obligations.
While it is ultimately up to the individual to decide how to manage their funds, it is clear that culture does influence our
decisions and behavior.
2. Cite two more proofs that culture influences human behavior.
 1. Cultural rituals – Cultural rituals are largely based on the history and values of a particular culture, and the way in
which members of that culture interact. People tend to act in ways that are consistent with culturally prescribed rituals,
such as attending religious services, celebrating holidays, and performing traditional marriage ceremonies. 2. Language –
Differences in language can lead to different interpretations of various behaviors and can shape how people think and act.
For example, a person from a culture that speaks English may view certain behaviors differently than someone from a
culture that speaks Spanish. Such differences in language can lead to different behaviors depending on the context
3. Cite a behavior of yours which is an influence of your culture. Is that behavior morally right?
 One behavior of mine that is influenced by my culture is showing respect for elders. I believe that this is a morally right
behavior because respecting our elders is a way of showing respect to the wisdom and experience that they have.
4. Enculturation is the learning of first culture. Acculturation is the learning of second culture. Are these statements correct?
 Yes, these statements are correct. Enculturation is the process of learning and internalizing the culture and values that are
passed down from one's family and society, while acculturation is the process of adapting to a new culture outside of
one's family and society.
5. Faith that does not become culture is not fully accepted, nor entirely reflected upon, or faithfully experienced" - John Paul II. Does this
explain inculturation? How?
 Yes, this does explain inculturation. Inculturation is the process of integrating the Christian faith into the practices and
daily lives of people in different cultures. It is the process of expressing and living out the faith within the cultural context
of one's own culture. John Paul II suggests that faith without culture is incomplete and not fully experienced, which
suggests that it is through the integration of one's faith with their culture that the faith can be fully expressed.
6. Is socialization a process of enculturation?
 Yes, socialization is a process of enculturation. Socialization is the process of learning and developing the values and
beliefs of one's society which is also part of the enculturation process.
7. Culture is learned not inherited. Is it within your power to change for the better?.
 Yes, it is within our power to change for the better. Culture is learned, not inherited, so it is an ongoing process of
learning and adapting to cultural norms and values. We have the power to adjust our cultural values and behaviors to
create positive change in ourselves and our society.
8. Does culture limit human person's freedom?
 Yes, culture does limit human person's freedom in some aspects. Certain cultural values, beliefs, and norms may limit
people's individual choices and freedom.
9. Culture makes absolute freedom impossible. Discuss.
 Culture does limit a person’s freedom in some senses, but it does not make absolute freedom impossible. Culture offers
individuals a framework within which to make decisions, and this can often be beneficial due to the restricting, yet safe,
boundaries that are established. It provides a sense of community and collective identity, which can be beneficial, even
though it may come at the cost of individual freedom in some cases.
REFLECTION
Reflect on one cultural practice of yours. Is it moral in the sense that it makes you more human?
 The cultural practice that I reflect on is the importance of family. This is moral in the sense that it reinforces the values of
respect, responsibility, and community. It encourages us to be compassionate, understanding, and supportive of one
another. It also encourages us to take care of each other and to help those in need. These are all qualities that make us
more human and make our society a better place.

LESSON 7
CULTURAL RELATIVISM
ACTIVITY
1. Read this statement: "What is true for me is true for me, and what is true for you is true for you." Do you agree with this statement?
Those who say NO, they don't agree, form one group. and those who say YES, they agree form another group.

 Yes, I agree with this statement. I believe that people should have the freedom to have their own personal opinions and
beliefs, and that no one should be forced to accept a truth or idea that they do not believe in. I think it is beneficial for
people to engage in debate and discussion to gain a better understanding of each others' perspectives, and if they are
convinced by another viewpoint, I believe it is perfectly fine for them to switch sides.
ANALYSIS
Is there any danger posed by this thought: "What is true for me is true for me, and what is true for you is true for you"?
 No, there is no danger posed by this thought. This thought can be seen as a way to promote respect and understanding
between people with different points of view. It is a way to recognize that everyone is entitled to their own opinions and
beliefs without judgments or criticism. This thought respects the right to disagree and encourages healthy dialogue that is
based on openness and mutual respect.
APPLICATION
1. Is cultural perspective the same as cultural relativism?
 No, cultural perspective is not the same as cultural relativism. Cultural perspective is a way of looking at a particular
culture from its own point of view while cultural relativism is the idea that culture is evaluated in context rather than
imposing one’s own values or belief systems onto another culture.
2. Illustrate with an example cultural perspective and cultural relativism.
 An example of cultural perspective is looking at religious practices from an outsider’s point of view, while cultural
relativism is about looking at practices or beliefs from within the culture, trying to better understand its origin and
purpose.
CHECK FOR UNDERSTANDING
1. Explain cultural relativism.
  Cultural relativism is a strength because it encourages greater awareness and understanding of the differences between
cultures rather than viewing them as inherently right or wrong. A weakness of cultural relativism is that it is often
difficult to maintain when trying to pass judgments in specific social and historical contexts.
2. How does cultural relativism differ from cultural perspective?
 Cultural relativism seeks to understand a certain culture in its own terms, from the perspective of its own inhabitants. This
is distinct from a cultural perspective, which could include any external viewpoint.
3. What is a strength of cultural relativism? What is a weakness of cultural relativism?
 A strength of cultural relativism is that it discourages blanket judgement of certain cultures without taking into account
the nuances of the culture's own context and values. A weakness of cultural relativism is that it can lead to apathy for the
sufferings of those living in marginalized cultures, as their culture is viewed as "acceptable" in their own context.
REFLECTION
Do you really agree with the concept of cultural relativism? Why or why not?
 Yes, I agree with the concept of cultural relativism. I think it is important to view cultures from within their own contexts
and accept them without imposing our own beliefs or values onto them. We should strive for greater understanding and
empathy when confronted with cultural differences.

LESSON 8
THE FILIPINO CHARACTER
KEY TAKEAWAYS

 The Filipino has a number of strengths. His/her strengths when they become extreme, however, also become his/her weaknesses.

 His/her strengths help him/her become ethical and moral but his/her weaknesses obstruct his/her moral and ethical growth.

 Culture has a significant impact on morality.

 The Filipino group-centeredness and "kami"- mentality make it difficult for the Filipino to stand up against the group when that is the
moral thing to do.

 There is much need for home, school and society as a whole to help every Filipino grow into the strong moral person everyone is called
to become."

 For the Filipino to become the moral and ethical person, he/she should capitalize on his/her strengths and eliminate his/her weaknesses.
ACTIVITY
1. Group yourselves by 5. Identify at least 3 strengths of the Filipino character.
1. Resilience – Filipinos are known for their ability to persevere through difficult times and circumstances. Despite frequent natural
disasters, poverty, and other difficult challenges, Filipinos remain resilient and find ways to overcome adversity.
2. Resourcefulness – Filipinos are extremely resourceful and creative, often finding creative solutions to difficult problems. This trait
helps Filipinos find solutions that do not require large investments of resources.
3. Compassion – People in the Philippines are renowned for their hospitality and ability to show genuine compassion and care for
others. Filipinos place great value on relationships and are quick to help friends and family in need.
ANALYSIS
These strengths sometimes also become weaknesses. Do you agree? Explain your answer and illustrate with an example.
 Yes, I agree that these strengths can sometimes also become weaknesses. For example, a person's resilience can be their
strength, but if they choose to keep persisting even in the face of an obstacle that is overwhelming, this can lead to
unnecessary stress and be detrimental to their wellbeing. Similarly, a person's resourcefulness be a great asset in many
situations, but it can also lead to them feeling overwhelmed and exhausted from taking on too much and not asking for
help. Likewise, a person's compassion is admirable, but it can become a weakness when they put other people's needs
over their own and don't take the time to address their own needs.
APPLICATION
1. According to the report, one weakness of the Filipino character is lack of analysis and emphasis on form (porma). The report states that
this lack of analysis and emphasis on form is reinforced by an educational system that is more form than substance...
 What is meant by an educational system that is more form than substance?
 An educational system that is more form than substance refers to an educational system that places an emphasis on rote
learning, memorization, and following the rules, rather than on critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation.

 Do you agree that the Philippine educational system is more form than substance? If yes, why? if not, why not?
 I do not agree that the Philippine educational system is more form than substance. There is an increasing focus on skills-based
learning, which promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and other skills needed to succeed in a modern workforce.
Furthermore, the Philippine government has also introduced new curricula that encourage students to explore and apply their
creativity more. This greater emphasis on skills-based learning has created an environment that allows students to express
their unique abilities and encourages them to think beyond the constraints of formal education.
2. Teacher observes that when students submit report, the more ornate and artistic the folder is, the less substantial the report. Which weakness in
the Filipino character is pointed to? If you were the teacher how do you counteract such?
 The weakness in the Filipino character that is pointed to is superficiality. To counteract this, the teacher can explain the
importance of the report's content, emphasizing that a high-quality report is more important than a creative folder. The teacher
can also set specific standards for what should be included in each report and then grade the reports based on those standards.
Finally, the teacher should provide feedback and support to students throughout the process, so that they can produce a quality
report.
3. In line with the government's austerity program, DepEd Order #2, s. 2019, reiterates the following policies:
a. Graduation rites should be simple but meaningful to encourage civil rights, a sense of community, and personal responsibility. While these
rites mark a milestone in the life of the learners, these should be conducted without excessive spending, extravagant attire or extraordinary venue.
b. Moving Up or Completion Ceremonies should be simple, involving only the learners, their parents and the school.
Which of the weaknesses of the Filipino does this DepEd Order wish to help eliminate? Explain.
 This DepEd Order seeks to help eliminate wasteful spending and showy displays of wealth among Filipino families. Such
behavior is often seen as a measure of success in the Filipino cultural context and can lead to feelings of inferiority or a lack of
 self-worth within the learner. By limiting spending and encouraging simpler, more meaningful ceremonies, the DepEd Order
helps instill a sense of dignity and equality among learners and their families. This helps to improve the character of Filipino
individuals and encourages cooperation within the community.

3. Group A reported in class first while the other groups listened. The other groups were asked to raise questions and comments. Group B
gave a lot of not-so-good comments and many points for improvement. Group A concluded Group B is biased against their group.
Which Filipino weakness is revealed? What should be done?

 The Filipino weakness revealed is pikon (touchiness). A person who is pikon is easily offended and quick to criticize the work
of others. In this situation, the best thing to do is to discuss the issues objectively. Group A should avoid lashing out and
Group B should be aware not to be too harsh in their comments. Both groups should make an effort to understand one
another's perspective to help them come up with a more informed and balanced opinion.

5. Cite instances where 1) extreme family centeredness, 2) lack of discipline, 3) passivity and lack of initiative, 4) colonial mentality, 5)
kanya-kanya syndrome, talangka mentality, 6) lack of self-analysis and self-reflection are manifested in Philippine society. When can
we say that Filipino has developed an integrated personality?
 1) Extreme family centeredness is manifested in the culture's prioritization of family over the individual in both life decisions
and daily activities. This can be seen in the strong emphasis that is placed on taking care of extended family members and the
long-term commitment to uphold the family honor and reputation.
2) Lack of discipline is seen both in the educational system and in the wider society. There is a relaxed attitude towards
enforcing rules and regulations, leading to a lack of accountability and an overall unwillingness to enforce proper behavior.
3) Passivity and lack of initiative is seen in the way Filipinos often take a back seat to authority figures or defer to the
decisions of others, even when faced with decisions or tasks that should be handled with greater autonomy.
4) Colonial Mentality is reflected in Philippine society through an overall acceptance of Western values, beliefs, and practices.
This leads to a diminished sense of Filipino culture and a longing for approval from the West.
5) Kanya-kanya Syndrome and Talangka mentality are also seen in the Filipino society. This refers to an overall sense of
entitlement and a propensity towards making decisions based on personal benefits, as opposed to communal ones.
6) Lack of self-analysis and self-reflection can be seen in the way many Filipinos are unwilling to take a closer look at their
own behavior and values, making it difficult to identify and address problematic behaviors or attitudes.
When we can say that Filipinos have developed an integrated personality is the point when they have managed to balance the
sense of Eastern culture and identity with those of the West in an effective manner. This includes being proud and confident
about their own cultural heritage, while at the same time being open-minded and accepting of foreign ideas and values. It also
involves understanding and taking responsibility for their own behavior and decisions, and recognizing their place in the larger
collective of the Filipino society.

6. What is meant by integrated personality? Or what is integrity? In mathematics, an integer is a whole number. Does this help in
understanding the meaning of integrity? When can we say
 Integrity is an important quality for any person. It is defined as “an undivided or unbroken completeness or totality with
nothing wanting”. The term can be used to refer to an individual’s adherence to moral and ethical principles, or to the state of
being complete and undivided within. An integrated personality is one who is complete and in harmony within themselves,
grounded in values that they live by, and fully aware of their capabilities. Basically, it is having a sense of who you are and
being able to maintain a balance of all the parts that make you. Integrity is different from the mathematical definition of an
integer. While an integer is a whole number that is not divided, integrity refers to the completeness and organised structure of
a person's character. We can say that someone has integrity when they have an internally consistent set of values and
principles that govern their behaviour. They are their own source of motivation and they show consistency over time. They are
principled and honest in their dealings with others.
 7. The Taoist principle states: "What I think must be the same as what I say and what I say must be the same as what I do." What does
this principle mean?
 The Taoist principle states that there should be consistency between what one thinks, says, and does - that actions should be
aligned with one's values and beliefs. It emphasizes the need for integrity and inner strength, encouraging individuals to act in
accordance with their beliefs and exercise self-discipline. By living in harmony with this principle, individuals are able to
develop an integrated personality and a healthy sense of self-respect.
CHECK FOR UNDERSTANDING
Accomplish this Table.

Filipino trait What is positive about it What is negative about it What should be done to make it a
positive trait

1. . Resourcefulness Filipinos are talented
problem solvers who are
able to make the most of
limited resources.
2. . Resilience Filipinos have a strong
ability to endure hardship,
overcome difficult situations
and remain hopeful.
3.. Openness and hospitality Filipinos are generally
warm, welcoming and
interested in getting to know
others
4. Adaptability Filipinos are able to adjust
to new environments and
cultures quickly
5. Family oriented Filipinos value maintaining
close relationships with
family and friends.
This trait can be taken
advantage of, leading to
exploitation and poverty
This trait can lead to
overworking or working long
hours, leading to a lack of
balance and rest
This trait can lead to
carelessness and vulnerability
when it comes to personal
belongings or safety.
This behavior can result in
difficulty in maintaining
identity and a sense of
rootedness in a specific culture.
This trait can lead to difficulty
in creating healthy boundaries
and taking care of oneself.
Ensure that people are empowered to
get their fair share of resources and are
not taken advantage of.
To make it a positive trait: Make sure
individuals have the resources, time,
and support they need to rest and
maintain a healthy balance.
Educate people on how to responsibly
engage with others in a hospitable way
without jeopardizing their personal
safety and wellbeing.
Support individuals to cultivate
rootedness with their culture and
identity, while also developing the
skills needed to adjust to unfamiliar
surroundings.
Teach people to prioritize themselves
and their needs in order to have
healthier relationships with their family
and friends.

REFLECTION
Among the weaknesses of the Filipino character which applies to you! What have you done to counteract such to become the moral person you
are called to be?
 One of the weaknesses of the Filipino character is the tendency to prioritize immediate gratification over long-term
responsibility. To counteract this, I have tried to develop good habits of delayed gratification by setting goals and working
steadily towards them. I have also taken up mindfulness practices to keep myself grounded and mindful of my thoughts and
actions. Additionally, I have built strong relationships with those who have different perspectives and experiences to challenge
my biases and perspectives. These relationships have also helped me to stay accountable to my moral code and pursue the
right thing even when it required personal sacrifice.
 LESSON 9
UNIVERSAL VALUES
KEY TAKEAWAYS

 Universal values are for human survival.

 Universal values are the ultimate bases for living together and learning how to live together. Without respect for human life by all then
people will just kill each other. If honesty or truth telling is not valued by all, there will be endless lack of trust among people.
 In spite of cultural relativism, there are values that are universal for human survival.

ACTIVITY
Read then answer the questions.
Be honest, even if others are not Be honest Even if others will not Even if others cannot He who walks honestly, walks securely. -Abhishek
Tiwari
ANALYSIS
1. Is honesty or truth telling considered a universal value? Why or why not?
 Yes, honesty or truth telling is considered a universal value. This is because honesty is a foundational norm of many societies
and is seen as crucial in maintaining trust and cooperation among people. Honesty is also a key component of many moral and
ethical codes, as it helps individuals act in an ethical manner and helps build healthy relationships.
2. What are possible consequences of dishonesty?
 Possible consequences of dishonesty include a breakdown of trust, damaged relationships, feelings of guilt, and even legal
consequences in certain cases. Dishonesty can also lead to a loss of credibility, a loss of respect both personally and
professionally, and even repercussions at work or in academia.
APPLICATION
1. Heads of State and Goverment, senior UN officials and representatives of civil society gathered in September 2015, as part of the 70°
session of the UN General Assembly and have adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These objectives form a program
of sustainable, universal and ambitious development, a program of the people, by the people and for the people, conceived with the
active participation of UNESCO. (https://en.unesco.org/sdgs)
Here are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals for the period 2015- 2030. Study and analyze them.

1. End poverty in all its forms everywhere

2. End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture
3. Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages
4. Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote life- long learning opportunities for all
 5. Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls
6. Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all
7. Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all
8. Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all
9. Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
10. Reduce inequality within and among countries
11. Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable
12. Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns
13. Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts (in line with the United Nations Frameworks Convention on Climate
Change)
14. Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development
15. Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification and halt
and reverse land degradation and half biodiversity loss
16. Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable developmen provide access to justice for all and build effective,
accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels
17. Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development
On what universal values are these 17 SDG 2015-2030 founded?
 The 17 Sustainable Development Goals for the period 2015-2030 are founded on universal values such as equity, justice,
human rights, dignity, solidarity, responsibility, sustainability, and care for the environment. These values promote the dignity
of individuals, protect the rights of all, and promote social and economic progress, environmental protection and long-term
sustainability. They respect the rights and interests of all stakeholders, taking into account the needs of the most vulnerable
and disadvantaged, and foster social harmony and shared prosperity. Furthermore, they promote peace and security,
inclusivity and collective action.
2. Explain why universal values are a necessity for human survival.
 Universal values are a necessity for human survival because they provide societies with a fundamental moral code of behavior
that determines how people should interact and live with one another. This moral code contributes to the overall wellbeing of
all members of society and helps create a sense of mutual respect, harmony, and understanding. When people are able to abide
by these universal values, it creates an atmosphere where they are able to trust each other and collaborate in order to take
collective actions, which in turn leads to better and more sustainable development of people and the environment. Universal
values are thus essential for human survival in order to create an atmosphere of positive collaboration, trust, and mutual
respect.
3. What are the 30-UN declared human rights? (Hint: Google) Are these universal values?
 The 30-UN declared human rights are the following:
1. Right to life, liberty and security
2. Freedom from torture and degrading treatment
3. Right to equality before the law
4. Right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion
5. Right to freedom of opinion and expression
6. Right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association
7. Right to take part in government and in free elections
8. Right to social security
9. Right to work
10. Right to rest and leisure
11. Right to an adequate standard of living
12. Right to education
13. Right to participate in cultural life
 14. Right to benefit from scientific progress
15. Right to participate in the cultural heritage of humanity
16. Right to a nationality
17. Right to marry and found a family
18. Right to privacy
19. Right to protection from arbitrary displacement
20. Right to asylum
21. Right to a global order based on respect for human rights
22. Right to freedom from discrimination
23. Right to freedom from slavery and servitude
24. Right to the pursuit of truth
25. Right to access to public service
26. Right to freedom from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment
27. Right to freedom of opinion and information
28. Right to an effective remedy by the competent national tribunals
29. Right to the protection of the law
30. Right to a fair trial
 Yes, these are all universal values as they are recognized as basic rights and freedoms for all individuals regardless of their
nationality, place of residence, sex, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, language, or any other status. All human beings
are born free and equal in dignity and rights. These 30 human rights form the basis of freedom, justice and peace in the world.
REFLECTION
What if there were no universal values?
 Without universal values, the world would be a much less secure and settled place. People would be more concerned with
individual ambitions than with working together for the benefit of all. Cooperation and understanding between different
cultures would become difficult to foster, leading to tension and conflict. Every culture would exist in its own bubble, and it
would be difficult to find any common ground for common progress. In short, without universal values, the world would lack
the essential elements of a functional and unified society.

Chapter 2
THE MORAL AGENT
KEY TAKEAWAYS

 A moral agent is one who performs an act in accordance with moral standards
 A moral agent should have the capacity to rise above his/her feelings and passions and acts in accordance with the moral law.
 A moral agent has the capacity to conform to moral standards, to act for the sake of moral considerations, that is, for the sake of moral
law.
 An insane person, who does not have the capacity to think and choose, cannot be a moral agent.
 A dog is, therefore, not a moral agent because it doesn't have the capacity to conform to moral standards. It cannot knowingly, freely
and voluntarily act. It does not have a mind and freewill.
 Like the dog, a robot cannot be a moral agent.
 The moral agent is purpose-driven or end-driven. That end is sought for its own sake, an end no longer sought for the sake of another
end, the highest good which is happiness.
 From the Christian point of view, a human person's destiny in the world is not only to achieve cultural and moral perfection, but to
attain the eternal happiness of the soul after death of the body. As a moral agent his duty is to know, to love, and to serve God, his
ultimate end.
  Fundamental option is a human person's basic choice or inner orientation either for a good life (directed towards others and God) or for
a bad life (directed towards himself/ herself and cut off from others and God.
 Man as a moral agent adopts the "fundamental option," a free choice to say "yes" to God's invitation to follow His way.
 There is no pre-fixed plan for the human person as a moral agent.
 For the existentialist, like Jean Paul Sartre, the human person, the moral agent, becomes what he/she makes of himself/herself by
choice. He/she is nothing, no "essence" until he/she starts his/her "existence" by making choices.
 To the process philosophers like Teilhard de Chardin and Alfred North Whitehead, whatever a human person, the moral agent, is or will
be is a result of a creative process. The moral agent has to create his/her end, purpose, or directions. He/she has to invent his/her
destiny. Since there is no goal or end designed for him/her, he/she would completely be the author of what he/she turns out to be.
He/she will be totally responsible for what he/she will be.
 Other groups, like Martin Heidegger, Gabriel Marcel and Martin Buber see the moral agent as a being-with-others, who is inseparably
related to his/her fellow man. Together with other moral agents, the human person goes through life, designing his/her end guided by
messages unvelled in a life of dialogue with others and with the world.
 For Brabander, the moral agent directs his/her life to Improve, refine, develops this world In order to bring out the world to come.
 R. Francour likewise claims that the moral agent should direct his/her life to the spritualization of this material world. .

ACTIVITY
1. Can a dog be a moral agent? Why or why not?
 No, a dog cannot be a moral agent. Moral agency is the capacity to evaluate and act on moral principles or understandings.
Dogs may be capable of learning and recognizing basic commands, but they don't have the cognitive capacity to discuss
concepts like right and wrong or make moral decisions.
2. Can a robot be a moral agent? Why or why not?
 It depends. As robots become increasingly sophisticated, many experts consider the possibility of robots having moral agency
in the future. For example, robots could be programmed to make decisions using predefined criteria or to learn moral
principles through artificial intelligence. However, current robot technology is not yet advanced enough to be considered a
moral agent.
ANALYSIS
1. Why can't a dog and a robot be moral agents?
 A dog and a robot cannot be moral agents because they lack the capacity to make moral decisions and act in a moral way.
Moral agents must possess both agency and moral understanding, and robots and animals are unable to demonstrate or apply
these characteristics in a meaningful way.
2. What must a moral agent have for him/her to be a moral agent?
 To be a moral agent, an individual must have the capacity and responsibility to make moral decisions and act according to
those decisions. Additionally, the individual must have an understanding of moral principles, such as justice and respect, and
have the ability to weigh the consequences of his/her own actions. Such an individual must also have the reasoning abilities
and empathy to appreciate and take responsibility for the consequences of his/her decisions, so they can act in a moral manner
in any given situation.
APPLICATION
 1. Is a permanently insane person considered a moral agent? What about a person with some psychological trauma, psychiatric illness episode,
or medical condition that rendered him insane at the time he committed the crime. Is he a moral agent?
 It depends on the case. In some cases, an insane person may be capable of understanding moral considerations and of forming
judgments that are informed by morality, in which case they could be considered moral agents. In other cases, the person’s
condition may render them incapable of making such judgments.
2. Here is a question often raised in relation to fundamental option. "What if a good person who has dedicated his life to people and God turns
away from goodness and from God at the last minute of his life. Will he go to hell?" On the contrary here is a person who has opted to live a life
for himself disconnected from others and from God but in the last minute of his life opts for God, will he go to heaven? Are these likely to
happen considering the concept of fundamental option?
 Fundamental option does not necessarily mean that at any point a person is consigned to hell or heaven, regardless of their
choices at the end of their life. The concept instead suggests that, over the entirety of a person’s lifetime, they will
demonstrate, through their words and deeds, an overarching commitment to either God or themselves. Even if they make poor
choices or bad decisions at the end of their lives, those do not necessarily negate the positive choices they have made
throughout their lives.
3. If you see a bad habit begin to develop, try to nip it in the bud so that it does not become ingrained
 Yes, it is important to try to stop a bad habit as early as possible before it becomes entrenched in your life and becomes
difficult to change. You can do this by recognizing the habit early, trying to avoid or minimize the triggers for the behavior,
and actively trying to replace the bad habit with a better one.
4. If your fundamental option is yes to goodness and God, does this mean there will never be times when you digress or deviate from what is
good?
 No, even with a fundamental option in place, it is possible to deviate from it at times. We are all human and subject to making
mistakes, so it is important to recognize these occasions as opportunities to learn and grow.
5. God himself or a life that is good is your fundamental option. But once in a while you may deviate from what is good despite your basic choice
of goodness. Are these the venial sins referred to by Catholic Christians? What must you do to be true to your fundamental option?
 Catholic Christians define venial sins as those that are minor or unintentional transgressions of God’s laws. To be true to your
fundamental option, it is important to take responsibility for your own actions and strive to live up to your own moral code
and the values that you believe in.
CHECK FOR UNDERSTANDING
1. Why can't the lower forms of animals be considered as moral agents?
 Lower forms of animals cannot be considered as moral agents because they lack the capacity to make moral decisions.
Instead, they rely on instinct to determine their behavior. They do not have the same level of cognitive thought, reasoning, and
ethical judgment as humans do.
2. For a person's fundamental option either he/she chooses between two. Who or which are these two options?
 The two options in a person's fundamental option are between good and evil, right and wrong, or beauty and ugliness.
3. Study the picture in the cover of this book. Does the picture suggest fundamental option? How?
  The picture on the cover of the book does suggest a fundamental option. It shows a woman standing in the foreground with
her hands open and a bright light shining in the background. This image suggests an open choice between light and dark,
between taking a path of good or a path of evil. The woman's pose implies that the choice is up to the viewer to make.

REFLECTION
From the innermost core of your being, whom have you chosen- God (goodness) or not God (the evil). How true have you been to your
fundamental option? Is your life one of communion with God or one of isolation?
 I have chosen God (goodness). I have stayed true to my fundamental option by living according to the values and principles
God teaches us. I strive to remain in communion with Him through prayer, reflection, and action. At times I have felt isolated
but His presence and guidance have always been with me, encouraging me along the way. My life is one of continual growth
and deepening connection with God.