Ethics Problem

Discuss the character issues involved in bullying. What can be done to reduce acts of bullying and abuse?

The character issues involved in bullying emanate from the causes of bullying. People become bullies for several reasons, such as seeking attention, envy and jealousy, shame, history of being bullied. The reasons mentioned above build the character that turns individuals into bullies. For example, people who have a history of bullying may have insecurities that make them feel the need to bully others. Frustration, envy, and jealousy may make individuals feel the need and desire to project toward others through bullying. Bullies also lack empathy for several reasons, such as poor upbringing (Laehem, 2013). Actions that can be taken to reduce bullying include reporting to a higher authority, standing up for oneself, or changing the environment where the bullying occurs (Jung, 2018).

Do you know anyone whom you think of as being an “ideal virtuous person”?  Who?  Why? Describe that person’s character, and what is it about him or her that you think makes him or her “ideal”.

I think of the now late Mother Mary Theresa as the ideal virtuous person. She dedicated her whole life to helping humanity. She was empathetic, caring, philanthropic, and generous. Her character of generosity and care make her ideal. She is well renowned for helping the sick and dying in the slums of Calcutta.

Make a list of at least 5 virtues you think everyone should possess and explain each. 

Everyone should possess the values of integrity, trustworthiness

• Integrity is the virtue of being moral and honest in dealings with other people. Integrity is central to becoming trustworthy.
• Trustworthiness is the virtue of having the confidence that a person can be relied on.
• Respect is demonstrating due regard for other people’s rights, abilities, qualities, authority, and achievements.
• Benevolence refers to the demonstration of kindness towards others.
• Empathy is described as having the ability to share the feelings of others. Empathetic people predict and share in other people’s emotions and feelings.

References

Jung, Y. A. (2018). What Makes Bullying Happen in School? Reviewing Contextual Characteristics Surrounding Individual and Intervention Programs on Bullying. İlköğretim Online, 1–6. https://doi.org/10.17051/ilkonline.2018.413814

Laeheem, K. (2013). Family and Upbringing Background of Students with Bullying Behavior in Islamic Private Schools, Pattani Province, Southern Thailand. Asian Social Science, 9(7). https://doi.org/10.5539/ass.v9n7p162