Relevance of Integrity, Morality and Ethics in the Contemporary World

Learnings from Shrimad Bhagavad Gita

Abstract

Integrity is apparently a matter of choice between what is right and what is easy. It manifests itself in everything one does- thoughts, behaviour and actions. It is more related to one’s everyday behaviour, both covert or overt and decision making. The word integrity is considered to have been originated from the French word ‘integrite or integre’, Latin integritas or integras, English integer or integrate, which conceptually means being intact and indicates wholesomeness and completeness of inner self and most importantly uprightness. Morality has its origin from Latin word ‘Mos’, which means customs. The term Ethics has been derived from the Greek word ‘Ethos’ meaning character. Integrity is more than a concept and certainly far beyond being a mere cliché. Integrity is more than morality and ethics, for these two are acclaimed externally and adhere to societal expectations of one’s conduct. Integrity, on the other hand is intrinsic in nature and is an internal state of being, an enduring personal commitment to honour moral and ethical values for moral reflection. Together, they are like a beacon that sails us through the tough turbulent currents of moral and ethical dilemmas, guiding us through states of internal and external conflicts by illuminating the path of honesty, truth, justice, and compassion.