Importance of Moral Character in Sports

1327 Words3 Pages

Ones moral character can be determined by virtue ethics. The virtue ethics of someone’s character can as well be based on how they behave under certain circumstances. In sport, moral character is related to many aspects including cheating. Laws and rules are also based on this theory. Everyone needs to obey the same set of rules to have a good moral character. So does breaking these rules make a person immoral? Virtue ethics essentially focuses on creating a morally good character. Also, these moral decisions are said to make you a happier, well-lived, person. Without virtue ethics, ones ethical behavior would be difficult to determine.

We can determine the moral character of an individual based on their virtue ethics. “Which action should I choose?” is often a question we subconsciously ask ourselves. But does this mean we will make the right choice? Do I always make the right choice? Does that make me have a bad moral character? Virtues in relation to moral character however can differ by the situation. For example, in sport there are numerous situations where morals come into play. But the decisions in which they make decide where they are morally characterized. Can a good moral character be obtained without good virtues?

The notion of moral character in relation to cheating in a sport can be determined by the circumstance. When the word “cheat” appears, we automatically think “bad”. Athletes have strength, size, agility, as well as commitment, selflessness, adaptability and teamwork, but do they have the moral character to stay fair in sport? The idea of athletes intentionally harming opponents against the “do no harm” principle seems to be immoral, but it is understood by people that it is part of the sport, whereas ...

... middle of paper ...

...moral strength of a human being’s will in fulfilling his duty.” Immanuel Kant’s definition of virtue is at odds end with Aristotle’s classical view in many respects. Many other views are also just as similar. Are these virtues, which make up moral character, a determinant of the kind of person you are? Kant argued that a virtue such as will is a disposition. Rather than a “second nature”, we do not train ourselves to act and feel certain ways. When cheating is involved, our will is a large factor involved. Does this mean people are predisposed to be cheaters? Ultimately, we can get to know someone and make a decision about what kind of person they are. From competitive to “would never harm a fly”, people are different on all sorts of levels. From virtues people posses to moral character of each individual, cheating in sport is based on this at the most basic level.

Open Document