Ethics and Peace Studies

2024
 Ethics and Peace Studies

Learning Module

This learning module was created in response to requests from students at the
University of Caloocan City for adaptable learning materials and evaluations based
on student performance within the class. The module includes solo and group
projects aimed at introducing individuals to the current social environment dealing
with principles and moral behavior. As students evaluate their commitments,
this topic aims to assist students establish their individual responsibilities to
teach young individuals to engage in thinking and ethical actions and ethical action
to alleviate disputes and enhance sustainability peace.
 Ethics and Peace Studies

About the course

This topic introduces students to modern culture, dealing with ideals of
moral conduct. To put it simply, it’s about the moral code that guides a person's
choices and behaviors, extending beyond individual actions to community or
society. It deals with rights, responsibilities, language, ethical living, and decision-
making. Moralizing is often an intellectual exercise, but often involves
understanding gut instincts and reactions. Despite varying beliefs across religions
and cultures, many morals are universal, stemming from basic human emotions.
 Ethics and Peace Studies

About the Author

This learning module was put together by students from the University of
Caloocan City's Bachelor of Science in Accounting Information System section 1A.

TRICIA YVETTE ABAJERO KATHERINE VALDEZ

NOLIJEOF M. REYES JAN GABRIELLE TIMOTHY A.

VELASCO

JERLYN CASSANDRA M. LHARAINNE VELOSO

SALAZAR

CZARRIENHEL SANCHEZ CHARLES HARREL VILLARIN

JOHN KENNETH A. SATURNINO MICO C. ZINAMPAS

 Ethics and Peace Studies

Table of Contents

Moral Courage…………………………………………………………………….1

Will and Will Power………………………………………………………………2

Developing Moral Courage and will within ourselves…………………………3-8

Knowing and Executing Good Moral Decisions…………………………………9-11

Why the will is as important as the reason……………………..……………... 12-13

Developing the will……………………………………………………………..14- 15

Moral Courage is developed by the following……………………………….. 16-17

**References**
 Ethics and Peace Studies

Objective:
1. Able to discuss how to develop the will and moral courage
2. To judge own moral behavior in terms of planning and execution in important moral experiences
3. Able to explain why the will is as important as the reason

 Moral – Is concerned with the principles of right and wrong ethically.

 Courage – Can be defined as act or responsibility that can be manifest in times of

dilemma and the ability to confront danger, fear, intimidation, pain or uncertainty.

Moral Courage
Researched by: Tricia Yvette Abajero

Is the quality of mind or spirit that enables, a person to withstand danger,

difficulty, or fear; persevere; and venture.
Comprehensively, it is a willful, intentional act, executed after mindful
deliberation, involving objective substantial risk to the bearer, and primarily motivated to
bring about a noble good or worthy end despite, perhaps, the presence of the emotion of
fear requires that we rise above the apathy, complacency, hatred cynicism, and fear
mongering in our political systems, socioeconomic divisions, and cultural, religious
differences.

1
 Ethics and Peace Studies

Will & Will Power

Researched by: John Kenneth A. Saturnino

Will
Refers to that faculty of the mind which chooses, at the moment of making decision,
the strongest desire from among the various desires present does not refer to any particular
desire, but rather to the capacity to act decisively on one’s desires.

Will Power

It refers to the “Inner strength to make a decision, take action, and handle, and
execute any aim or task until it is accomplished, regardless, of inner and outer resistance,
discomfort or difficulties. It bestows the ability to overcome laziness, temptations and negative
habits, and to carry out actions, even if they require efforts, are contrary to one’s habits”

2
 Ethics and Peace Studies

Developing Moral Courage and Will within ourselves

Researched by: Valdez, Reyes, Villarin, Veloso, and Velasco

Developing Will and Moral Courage 5 Tips

The following are some tips or suggestions on how to develop will and moral courage.

1. Develop and practice self-discipline

One way to develop moral courage and will is to develop and practice self- discipline. The
concept self-discipline Involves the rejection of instant gratification In favor of something
better. It’s to give up our desire or pleasure to discipline ourselves.
Applied ethically, it can refer to giving up immediate pleasure and gratification in order to
achieve a higher and better goal, such as making a sound, ethical decision.
Developing will and moral courage includes developing self-control. This involves cultivating
the ability to engage with actions, thoughts and behaviors that lead to moral improvement and
success.
The act of granting oneself the power to devote all their attention to a noble cause and persevere
until it is accomplished.

2. Saying no to useless, harmful or unnecessary desires and deeds, and behaving contrary to
one's (bad) habits, fortify and refine a person's mindset. By persistent practice, one's inner
power grows, in the same way working out one's muscles at a gym increases one's physical
strength. In both cases, when a person needs inner power or physical strength. they are available
at his/her disposal. The following are some examples. Some of them are not necessarily and
ethically related:

2.1 Don't open the internet for a day or two:

This exercise requires you to resist the urge to constantly check social media, browse the
internet, or engage in online activities for a designated period. It's about disconnecting from the
digital world and focusing on present-moment experiences.

3
 - Temporarily disable notifications on your phone or put it in a different room to minimize
distractions.

- Engage in offline activities such as reading a book, going for a walk, or spending quality
time with loved ones.

- Reflect on the impact of excessive internet use on your productivity, well-being, and
relationships.

2.2 Drink water or juice, in spite of your desire to have a beer or liquor: This exercise involves
making a conscious choice to opt for healthier drink options rather than indulging in alcohol.

- Identify the reasons behind your desire for alcohol and explore alternative ways to cope with
those underlying emotions or triggers.

- Keep yourself hydrated by carrying a water bottle or having a variety of juice options readily
available.

- Reflect on how making this healthier choice aligns with your overall well-being and long-
term goals.

2.3 Avoid chatting with your gossipy friend: This exercise focuses on setting boundaries and
choosing not to engage in toxic conversations or gossip.

- Communicate your boundaries to your friend and let them know that you prefer not to
participate in gossip or negative discussions.

- Redirect the conversation towards more positive or meaningful topics.

- Reflect on the impact of gossip on your relationships and personal growth, and consider
surrounding yourself with more positive influences.

2.4. Go to sleep one hour earlier than usual for a week: This exercise aims to prioritize and
improve your sleep habits, which can have a significant impact on your mental and physical
well-being.

4
 - Establish a consistent bedtime routine that promotes relaxation, such as reading a book or
practicing meditation before bed.

- Create a sleep-friendly environment by ensuring your bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a

comfortable temperature.

- Reflect on the positive changes in your energy levels, focus, and overall mood as a result of
prioritizing adequate sleep.

2.5 Resist the desire to gamble: This exercise revolves around overcoming the urge to engage in
gambling activities, which can be addictive and detrimental to your financial and emotional
well-being.

- Identify healthier alternatives to fulfill the excitement or thrill-seeking aspect that often
accompanies gambling, such as engaging in sports or hobbies.

- Seek support from friends, family, or support groups to hold yourself accountable and
provide encouragement.

- Reflect on the positive impact of resisting the desire to gamble on your financial stability,
mental clarity, and overall well-being.

3. Draw inspiration from people of great courage.

People usually admire and respect courageous persons who have won great success by
manifesting self-discipline and will power. These include people in all walks of life, who with
sheer will power and moral courage, overcame difficulties and hardships, have improved their
moral life, advanced on the spiritual or moral path, and became worthy of imitation.
History is filled with outstanding examples of moral courage whom we rightly celebrate: Dr.
Martin Luther King, Jr., Mahatma Gandhi, Aung San Suu Kyl, and especially Jesus Christ and
His apostles. When we see individuals put their comfort, safety, security, reputation, or even life
on the line for a cause they believe in, or for an ideal That matters more than personal wellbeing
we witness moral courage and will in action.

5
4. Repeatedly do acts that exhibit moral courage and will.

- Practice makes perfect. If one wishes to nurture the moral courage and will in him, he must
strive doing the acts that manifest them whenever opportunity.

4.1 Repeatedly exhibiting moral courage and will involves developing certain habits and
mindsets. Here are some steps you can take to cultivate these qualities:

4.2 Self-reflection: Take time to reflect on your values and the kind of person you want to be.
Understanding your own moral compass is essential for acting with moral courage.

4.3 Educate Yourself: Learn about different ethical frameworks and the experiences of others
who have shown moral courage. This can help you understand the complexities of moral
decision-making.

4.4 Practice Empathy: Understanding the perspectives and experiences of others can help you
make more informed and compassionate decisions.

4.5 Seek Support: Surround yourself with people who share your values and can provide
support and guidance when faced with difficult decisions.

4.6 Start Small: Look for opportunities in your daily life to act with moral courage. It could be
standing up for someone, speaking out against injustice, or making ethical choices in your
personal and professional life.

4.7 Reflect and Learn: After taking action, reflect on the outcomes and learn from your
experiences. This will help you refine your approach to exhibiting moral courage in the future.

6
5. Avoid deeds that show lack of moral courage and will

It suggests avoiding actions that demonstrate a deficiency in both moral strength and
determination. In other words, it advises against engaging in behaviors that lack integrity,
bravery, and the resolve to do what is right. Consciously, avoiding these deeds and actively
cultivating virtues such as empathy, integrity, and accountability, individuals can demonstrate
true moral courage and will, contributing to a more just and compassionate society.

This involves evading acts that show irresponsibility, cowardice, apathy, rashness, imprudence,
ill will, and wickedness. Here are some examples:

5.1 Walking away from someone in need – Instead of turning a blind eye, it’s crucial to
extend a helping hand to those who require assistance, demonstrating empathy and compassion.

5.2 Taking more than your fair share – Acting with integrity means respecting boundaries
and ensuring fairness in all dealings, whether it’s sharing resourced and responsibilities.

5.3 Laughing at someone’s misfortune or accident – Cultivating kindness involves refraining

from deriving pleasure or amusement from others’ suffering showing empathy and sensitivity
instead.

5.4 Grabbing the spotlight from someone who has earned it – True leadership involves
recognizing and celebrating the achievements of others, rather than seeking undue attention at
their expense.

5.5 Placing too much reliance on the letter than the spirit of the law – Upholding justice
requires understanding the deeper principles behind laws and regulations, rather than, exploiting
technicalities for personal gain.

5.6 Remaining silent in the face- of wrong-doing or injustice, even when it’s uncomfortable or
unpopular, advocating for fairness and equity.

7
5.7 Rationalizations or justifications for action/lack of action – Avoiding moral ambiguity
means refraining from making excuses or rationalizations for actions that go against ethical
principles, holding oneself accountable instead.

5.8 Being inconsistent or capricious with rules and standards for one’s children – Setting a
strong moral example for the next generation involves adhering to consistent values and
standards, fostering integrity and responsibility.

5.9 Choosing sides after seeing which way the wind is blowing – Demonstrating true
conviction means staying true to one’s principles, regardless of external pressures of shifting
circumstances.

5.10 Breaking a promise – Honoring commitments is fundamental to building trust and

integrity in relationships, demonstrating reliability and accountability.

5.11 Lying or cheating – Upholding honesty and fairness is essential for maintaining integrity
and trust worthless, fostering genuine connections and respect.

8
 Ethics and Peace Studies

Knowing and Executing Good Moral Decision

Researched by: Czarrienhel Sanchez

 Knowing awkwardly considered as a “mental masturbation” that do not really have any
significance because it is like a “soul without a body.” Performance of knowledge is
more appreciated since it has a tangible impact to others. It is actually the embodiment
and fulfilment of knowledge because it results into a product an idea infused or
transformed into a physical object.
 Executing is by finding your true decision in your own experiencing, by planning,
communicating, navigating around problems and to execute your own plan what to do.
“The philosophers have only interpreted the world, in various ways. The point, however,
is to change it. “(Karl Marx)

The above claim of Marx fittingly describes the longstanding problem on those who
specialize in knowledge but fails to apply it. Similarly, many have been very good at theory but
are too detached from the “real world” or unable to practice the theory. Philosophers
have been accused of comfortably standing at the “ivory tower of intelligence” but neglecting to
bring it down or practice it in life.

“Do you want to know who you are? Don’t ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you

not
could
actually
ne who
could who
do
dodo
actually
notne something
do thinks
it
it because
something
thinks or says
because
or should
says
if
if he
shouldthat
he does
that he
does
he
(Thomas Jefferson)

One who thinks or says that he could do something should actually do it because if he
does not do it then he is just making an empty promise. One should be consistent in doing what
he claims in order to build his integrity and gain other’s respect or trust.

9
 In the Philippines, there are numerous sets of rules already created for people to follow.
But it isa sad observation that many do not strictly practice them as evidenced by many
violations and bribes committed regularly. Because of this, Filipinos are suspected of being
excellently knowledgeable but very poor in implementation. Since there is also a growing
number of crimes and criminals, Filipinos are apparently accused of not living their
Christian faith. They have long been thought to have a split-level of Christianity. Thus,
their intellect including faith that does not match with practice results in the gradual loss of their
credibility and trustworthiness.

Knowing how to make a good decision is not equivalent to executing a good moral
decision just as talking is not walking. One must know and execute or “walk the talk” and
“practice what one preaches” in order not to be considered as hypocrite. Everyone is expected
to bridge the gap between knowing and good moral decisions, walking and talking or to put
every idea into flesh precisely because this makes sense or does significant change. Everyone is
expected to bridge the gap between knowing and making good moral decisions, as this makes
sense and does significant change. Leaders who know or say a thing but do otherwise are
seldom followed. They are expected to execute good or even better decisions for themselves
and their followers. Experience is said to be the best teacher, and execution of a good moral
decision is the concrete actualization of the leader's knowledge. Peter Marshall once said that
small deeds done are better than great deeds planned. Sun Tzu said that strategy without tactics
is the slowest route to victory. In the corporate setting, a leader theorist who knows good moral
decisions expands their mindset beyond their surroundings and assumptions. However, a leader
practitioner executes good moral decisions by finding their true decision in their own
experiences and planning.

through constant repetitions, by building good decision-making skills through

experiments, and by being left alone to survive and progress,
All forms of knowing or theorizing without execution or application are purely "barkings"
without even a single bite. People who know a lot in decision-making but do not actually have
the credibility and credentials of executing what he knows in good moral decision-making is
problematic.
10
Knowing what is a good moral decision is supposedly the gateway for execution of a good
moral decision or a map in order to find treasure. Knowing how to read a map means one still
needs to navigate, trek, and suffer the distance and challenges of the difficult routes leading to
the treasure. As Dale Carnegie said, it is the case that "Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action
breeds confidence and courage... If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it.
Go out and get busy.

11
 Ethics and Peace Studies

Why the Will is as important is as important as Reason

Researched by: Cassandra Salazar, Res

Why do most people admire and respect those who excel not just in theory or knowledge,
but also in practice or the implementation of sound moral decisions? It is not because they are
associated with huge success, but because they demonstrate not only sound logic but also the
power of will.
Reason has long allowed people to discover truths and rules in nature, but will has also been
used to improve lives, conquer natural calamities, overcome difficulties, solve issues, and
achieve successes. Reason and will are two opposing and interconnected notions.
Reason allows us to understand how we should behave in relation to the other beings around us.
It is what gives him an advantage over the animals. It is essentially what allows him to interact
properly with others. The will, on the other hand, is the mental ability that selects a desire from
among the many available options during decision-making. It refers to the technique for
selecting from among one’s preferences. It is thought to play the most important role in
enabling intentional action.
Thomas Aquinas (Minnevik, 2017) argues that reason is a “command” that directs human
conduct, decision-making, and will. Thomas Aquinas defines reason as the inborn intellect that
directs the will in selecting a good end and the most reasonable option. Thus, the will is
assumed to be overly dependent on reason.
The will does not function without reason. Reason is required to create appropriate goals,
understand how to achieve those goals, and measure progress. The reason is extremely
important in ensuring that goals are clearly articulated. It must develop practical feedback that
encourages a genuine reaction of the will.
The explanation should specify a goal that is neither too large nor too modest for the will. It is
important to recognize one’s own capabilities and limitations in order to make realistic
decisions. Choosing is more than just being aware of one’s goal and all of the circumstances
that go with it; the will must genuinely put the goal into action in order for it to be achieved.

12
 Suarez Minnevik
The relationship between reason and willpower is a dynamic and intricate one. Reason, often
associated with logical thinking and rationality, helps us analyze situations, weigh options, and
make informed decisions based on evidence and logic. It allows us to consider the potential
outcomes and consequences of our actions.
On the other hand, willpower is the inner drive and determination that enables us to take action
and follow through with our decisions. It is the force that propels us forward, even in the face of
challenges or temptations. Willpower is what gives us the strength to stay committed to our
goals and overcome obstacles along the way. When reason and willpower work together in
harmony, they create a powerful synergy. Reason provides the foundation for making well-
informed choices, while willpower empowers us to take decisive action towards achieving those
choices. By utilizing reason, we can set clear and meaningful goals, and by harnessing our
willpower, we can stay focused, motivated, and resilient in pursuing those goals.
However, it's important to recognize that maintaining a balance between reason and willpower
can sometimes be challenging. For example, too much reliance on reason alone can lead to
analysis paralysis, where we overthink and struggle to make decisions. Conversely, an excessive
focus on willpower without considering reason can lead to impulsive actions or pursuing goals
that may not align with our long-term well-being.
Finding the right balance between reason and willpower requires self-awareness and
introspection. It involves understanding our values, priority.
Raz (Minnevik, 2017) claimed that free will is not really free since the reason guides the will
and needs reason to defend will’s choices. Reason too needs free will in decision-making to
truly make a good choice. Reason and will are different from each other but both are
interdependent components in decision-making.
Both reason and will must work together in order to achieve the goals. If they work separately,
they could weaken each other and the person himself. Self-confidence is achieved if both reason
and will work interdependently. With the reason that sets the goal and the will that chooses it,
what comes next is for both to do something or actually do it. Not doing it weakens self-
confidence.
With self-confidence is possible with self-awareness and self-monitoring. Self-monitoring or
self-regulation is essentially a self-awareness that constantly wills development or change.
Being able to see oneself drives one to change oneself through self-regulation for the better, this
self-confidence will ultimately lead to the development of moral courage as the reason
continues to train the will.
13
 Developing the Will
Researched by: Zinampan and Villarin

WILL is the power of the mind to decide do and make things happen (in Filipino - nais,
kalooban, hangad.) according to Arthur Schopenhauer the will is the living beings “innermost
essence, the kernel, of every particular thing and also of the whole. The will is defined
differently as "will to power" by Friedrich Nietzsche. It is the act of overcoming, reinterpreting,
reinventing, creating, enriching and improving the self without any negativity, resentment,
whatsoever. It is owning and obeying oneself with pure strength and joy. Thus, the will is
essentially a development more than or greater than oneself.

Everyone can develop "will to power" or "willpower" motivated will) through mental training.
Mental training happens as reason regularly disciplines the will. It develops willpower through
active self-discipline and goal-setting because it can bring enormous benefits.

Self-discipline is will's capacity to give up instant pleasure for a higher or better goal. It is will's
openness to be guided by reason. Thoughts or behaviors are regulated for improvement and
success. It also enables the reason to provide enough and right basis for the will to choose from.

It is the will's getting good direction and end from reason. It is self-regulation or self-control
that manifest interdisciplinary work of reason and will. The best benefit of training the will is
eventually the development of moral courage. Moral courage as good habit or virtue becomes
the very source of the will in choose what is good and reasonable. It becomes the inner power of
a well-developed will.

DEVELOPING MORAL COURAGE

For Aristotle moral courage is the mean between fear and recklessness. Those who are
unnecessarily and excessively fearful in the face of danger are called cowards while those who
are overconfident and stupid risk-takers are reckless people. But the morally courageous man,
balances fear and recklessness by having both fear and confidence for the right reasons.

Miller (2005) said: "Moral courage is the commitment to standing up for and acting upon one's
ethical beliefs." 14
 Adelide Kamanthe (2016) explains:

Moral courage is doing the right thing simply because it is right, especially in the face of
opposition. Moral courage is holding on to one's values and principles when others choose to
let go. It is what characterizes those who face the pains and dangers of disapproval in the
execution of what they believe to be their obligation. To have moral courage is to be willing to
speak out and act for that which is right even in the face of opposing, even superior forces. It is
having the strength of character to do the right thing, even if it is not popular.... It is shunning
the "easy wrong" for the "hard right." It is more about striving to be loyal to one's moral values
while engaging in a process of ethical reasoning, moral thinking and personal determination of
what matters.

Moral courage is often tested every day where living life is questioned if it truly is in
accordance with moral principles. It is a challenging situation of choosing between comfort and
anxiety, possessions and poverty, relationship and isolation, and career and integrity. One may
be morally courageous in being honest but may also be risking by losing career and family.
Morally courageous people rarely get awards and social affirmation. They are often ridiculed or
rejected because the true essence of moral courage is the willpower to take everything even
worst ends with pride and confidence.

15
 Ethics and Peace Studies

Moral Courage is developed by Practicing the Following

Researched by: Saturnino and Valdez

Moral awareness. It is being able to recognize moral situations and moral dilemmas that
involve conflicts between good and bad, moral values or principles, goods and evils. It patiently
considers everything so that decisions may be emphatic and compassionate to those who would
be affected. Knowing the facts and truths about the moral situation builds and adds up strength
to moral courage. A developed will, because will and moral courage are the tools for evaluating
all ethical behavior, such as ethical decision making. The combination of willpower and moral
courage enables an individual to plan and execute moral judgments or moral acts in moral
experience.
Moral courage is a potential within each person that must be developed through experience,
guidance, and the development of will.
 Self-discipline. It is a practice of self-regulation, self-control and balance. Moderation.
and rejection of instant, physical satisfactions or personal benefits for lasting and
intellectual or spiritual goals teaches self-discipline and how to execute a good rational
decision. It takes moral courage to deny oneself of basic and personal satisfactions in
order to stick to thoughts and behavior that lead to moral improvement and success. Self-
discipline breeds moral courage.

 Perseverance. It is the inner strength to focus all the energies and behaviors towards a
moral goal until it is accomplished. Convictions and choices must all be converted into
action. This demands moral courage in overcoming all kinds of fears and facing the
adversities of failures. Moral courage means willful perseverance in standing up for one's
moral beliefs and principles, even it may cost one's inconvenience and detriment.
Perseverance is essentially a co-principle of moral courage. Without perseverance, one
cannot.

16
 Constant Practice. It makes “the difference” and “makes perfect”. The act of thinking,
knowing and planning is distinct from the act. This statement illustrates how actions such
as demonstrating leadership, teaching skills, living well-intentionally, and utilizing
knowledge can bring about social change. To the extent that good ethical decisions or
behaviors are regularly practiced and carried out repeatedly, they become the foundation
of moral courage. Continuous practice brings perfect moral courage.

 Making a difference. This is the essence of moral courage. To improve our lives, we
must have the courage to stand up and fight against inappropriate policies and programs.
Moral courage is best practiced through constant service to others, because it ultimately
leads to self-denial and altruism, leading to self-improvement and reinvention, real self.

 Emulating Beacons of Moral Courage. This is where a person develops or improves

their moral courage by having a beacon or a person to admire, a model they look up to
and respect. Because these people also express great moral courage, the people that
consider them as heroes get influence in having great success in their will power and
moral courage. J. Rizal and A. Luna these heroes are worth emulating because of their
will power and moral courage that is the reason for the well-being of many people.

 Instituting Cultures that Support Moral Courage. Communication at all levels is

possible. All policies and procedures adopted must be well communicated to
institutionalize a culture that supports ethical practices such as moral courage.
Strengthening moral courage should be encouraged by creating a positive work
environment and a culture of active participation in ethical activities.

 Advocating Peer Support. This ensures that people who demonstrate moral courage
receive appropriate support from colleagues and managers. To strengthen the moral
courage of change agents and whistleblowers, they need support from others. There is
always more than one group of allies who support morally courageous actions.

17
References:
Moral Courage. (n.d.). https://youtu.be/jXHLIW2NzYE?si=0yuO7locDXBlWCFt

Moral courage and Development of the will. (n.d.). Studocu. Retrieved March 2, 2024, from
https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/university-of-caloocan-city/basic-legal-ethics/moral-courage-and-
developing-will/22609691

Why the will is as important as the reason. (n.d.). Studoco. Retrieved March 2, 2024, from
https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/urdaneta-city-university/bs-info-tech/why-the-will-is-as-important-as-
reason/31368222S

Developing the will. (n.d.). Studoco. Retrieved March 2, 2024, from

https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/urdaneta-city-university/bs-info-tech/developing-the-will/31368260