WEEK 12 CONSCINCE

Conscience
a. Types of conscience
b. Compulsory conscience

Learning objectives
1. Understand the definition of conscience and its role in moral decision-making.
2. Identify the two main types of conscience: descriptive and evaluative
conscience.
3. Recognize the concept of compulsory conscience and its influence on moral
behavior.
4. Differentiate between correct, erroneous, doubtful, scrupulous, lax, and
calloused consciences.
5. Comprehend the ethical implications of each type of conscience and their
impact on individual behavior and society as a whole.

DISCUSSION

CONSCINCE
Conscience is an inner sense of what is right and wrong. It is a moral compass
that guides our decisions and actions. Conscience can be based on personal beliefs,
values, and upbringing, as well as on social norms and laws.
Types of Conscience
There are two main types of conscience:
• Descriptive conscience tells us what we have done, are doing, or are about to
do.
• Evaluative conscience tells us whether what we have done, are doing, or are
about to do is right or wrong.

1. Correct Conscience
A correct conscience is a moral compass that accurately distinguishes between
right and wrong. It is based on a sound understanding of ethical principles and a
consistent application of those principles to specific situations. Individuals with a
correct conscience are likely to make morally sound decisions that align with ethical
norms and contribute to the well-being of others.

Ethical Implications:
• Promotes ethical decision-making and moral behavior
• Contributes to a just and harmonious society
• Fosters personal integrity and a sense of moral responsibility
Example:
A doctor who refuses to perform an unethical medical procedure, even if it means
facing professional consequences, is acting in accordance with a correct conscience.

2. Erroneous Conscience
An erroneous conscience makes mistaken judgments about right and wrong,
leading individuals to make morally questionable decisions. This type of conscience
can arise from various factors, such as insufficient knowledge of ethical principles,
biases, or undue influence from external sources. Individuals with an erroneous
conscience may need to reassess their moral compass and seek guidance from trusted
sources.
Ethical Implications:
• Can lead to morally questionable decisions and actions
• May contribute to harm to others or to society as a whole
• Requires individuals to critically examine their moral beliefs

Example:
A person who believes that it is morally acceptable to cheat on their spouse
because they believe that their partner is also cheating is acting in accordance with
an erroneous conscience.

3. Doubtful Conscience
A doubtful conscience is uncertain about the morality of a particular action.
This uncertainty can stem from conflicting information, complex ethical dilemmas,
or a lack of clarity about the relevant moral principles. When faced with a doubtful
conscience, individuals should carefully consider the potential consequences of their
actions and seek advice from others.

Ethical Implications:
• Promotes careful consideration of moral issues and potential consequences
• Encourages consultation with others and seeking diverse perspectives
• Helps individuals avoid making hasty or uninformed moral decisions

Example:
A scientist who is unsure about the ethical implications of a new research
project should seek guidance from colleagues, ethicists, and other relevant experts
before proceeding.

4. Scrupulous Conscience
 A scrupulous conscience is excessively strict in its moral judgments, leading
to unnecessary anxiety and guilt. Individuals with a scrupulous conscience may set
overly high moral standards for themselves and may experience distress even when
their actions are not objectively wrong. They may benefit from counseling or therapy
to manage their anxiety and develop a more balanced approach to morality.

Ethical Implications:
• Can lead to excessive guilt and self-doubt, hindering personal growth
• May result in avoidance of certain activities or opportunities due to fear of
moral transgression
• Requires individuals to develop a more nuanced understanding of morality
and self-compassion
Example:
A student who is so afraid of making a mistake on an exam that they become
paralyzed with anxiety may be struggling with a scrupulous conscience.

5. Lax Conscience
A lax conscience is overly tolerant of wrongdoing, leading individuals to
make morally questionable decisions with little remorse. This type of conscience can
develop due to desensitization to ethical principles, a lack of empathy, or a desire to
avoid conflict. Individuals with a lax conscience may need to confront their moral
complacency and cultivate a stronger sense of ethical responsibility.

Ethical Implications:
• Can lead to unethical behavior and a disregard for the rights and well-being
of others
• May contribute to a culture of moral indifference and a decline in ethical
standards
• Requires individuals to re-evaluate their moral beliefs and develop a stronger
moral foundation
Example:
A business executive who consistently makes decisions that prioritize profits
over the safety of workers or the environment may be acting in accordance with a
lax conscience.

6. Calloused Conscience
A calloused conscience is hardened to moral considerations, leading
individuals to engage in wrongdoing without experiencing significant guilt or
remorse. This type of conscience can develop through repeated unethical behavior
or a prolonged exposure to immoral environments. Individuals with a calloused
conscience may be resistant to moral appeals and may require significant
intervention to rekindle their moral sensitivity.

Ethical Implications:
• Can lead to persistent and serious wrongdoing, causing significant harm to
others
• May contribute to a culture of moral corruption and a breakdown of societal
norms
• Requires individuals to confront their moral apathy and undergo a deep
personal transformation
Example:
A criminal who repeatedly commits crimes without experiencing guilt or
remorse is likely to have a calloused conscience.

Compulsory Conscience
Compulsory conscience is a type of conscience that is based on external
factors, such as social norms or laws. It is the feeling that we must do something
because it is expected of us, even if we do not personally believe it is right.
Compulsory conscience is often contrasted with autonomous conscience, which is a
type of conscience that is based on our own personal beliefs and values.
Ethical Implications of Compulsory Conscience
Compulsory conscience can have both positive and negative ethical
implications. On the one hand, it can help to promote social order and conformity to
moral norms. For example, compulsory conscience can lead us to obey laws, even if
we do not agree with them, because we recognize that they are necessary for the
smooth functioning of society. On the other hand, compulsory conscience can also
lead us to do things that we believe to be wrong. For example, we may feel
compelled to participate in activities that we find unethical, such as discrimination
or violence, because we fear the social consequences of not doing so.

Applications of Compulsory Conscience

Compulsory conscience is applied in a variety of settings, including:
• Law: Laws are often based on compulsory conscience, as they reflect the
collective moral beliefs of a society. For example, laws against murder are
based on the belief that it is wrong to kill another person.
• Social norms: Social norms are also often based on compulsory conscience,
as they reflect the expectations of a particular group of people. For example,
social norms against cheating may be based on the belief that it is wrong to be
dishonest.
• Religion: Religious beliefs can also be a source of compulsory conscience.
For example, religious teachings against lying or stealing may be based on the
belief that these actions are morally wrong.

Examples of Compulsory Conscience

There are many examples of compulsory conscience in everyday life. For example,
consider the following situations:
• A person may feel compelled to vote in an election, even if they do not feel
strongly about any of the candidates, because they believe that it is their civic
duty to do so.
• A student may feel compelled to cheat on an exam, even if they know it is
wrong, because they are afraid of failing the class.
 • A person may feel compelled to participate in a religious ritual, even if they
do not believe in it, because they do not want to offend their family or friends.

Limitations of Conscience
While conscience serves as a valuable moral guide, it is not without
limitations. Personal biases, cultural influences, and emotional factors can shape our
perceptions of right and wrong. In some instances, conscience may lead us astray,
particularly if it is not informed by sound moral principles or critical reflection.

Cultivating a Well-Formed Conscience

To nurture a well-formed conscience, we must engage in ongoing self-
examination and moral education. By studying ethical principles, reflecting on our
actions, and seeking guidance from trusted mentors, we can refine our understanding
of right and wrong.

CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the exploration of conscience delves into the intricacies of our
inner moral compass, shedding light on its types, ethical implications, applications,
and limitations.
The two main types, descriptive and evaluative conscience, provide insights
into how conscience informs us about our actions and their moral implications. The
discussion on correct conscience emphasizes the importance of a well-informed
moral compass, promoting ethical decision-making, contributing to societal
harmony, and fostering personal integrity.
Conversely, erroneous conscience, doubtful conscience, scrupulous
conscience, lax conscience, and calloused conscience highlight the potential pitfalls
and ethical implications associated with misguided or imbalanced moral judgments.
Each type presents unique challenges, ranging from excessive guilt to a lack of moral
sensitivity, requiring individuals to critically examine and refine their moral beliefs.
 The concept of compulsory conscience introduces the influence of external
factors, such as social norms or laws, on our moral decision-making. While it can
promote social order and conformity, it also raises ethical concerns when it leads
individuals to act against their personal beliefs.
The applications of compulsory conscience in law, social norms, and religion
illustrate how collective moral beliefs shape societal expectations. However, it also
underscores the potential conflict between personal convictions and external
expectations, posing ethical dilemmas in various aspects of life.
The discussion concludes with a recognition of the limitations of conscience,
acknowledging the impact of personal biases, cultural influences, and emotional
factors on moral perceptions. The call to cultivate a well-formed conscience
emphasizes the ongoing need for self-examination, moral education, and seeking
guidance from trusted mentors to refine our understanding of right and wrong.
In essence, the multifaceted nature of conscience underscores its significance
in ethical decision-making, urging individuals to navigate the complexities of
morality with a nuanced and well-informed approach.

SOURCES
Agapay, Ramon B. Ethics and Filipino: A Manual on Morals for Students and
Educators. Manila: Glen, Paul J. Ethics, London: Herder Book Company, 1965.
Google and Youtube
Old notes/handouts Ethics