As a broad question, the circumstances usually weigh upon our decisions. If we were to ask any number of people, each would respond differently and according to their own beliefs. The beliefs that people value and are the structure which they live by are called morals. Morals are personal beliefs, and ethics are those beliefs and rules which are set by a larger group for the greater good. Ethics are in place to prevent endangerment of others’ well being.

Although one may hold personal morals above all others, society will expect someone to conduct them self in an ethical manner according to accepted standards. Conviction and self-interest do not usually suffice in determining what is right or wrong. An honorable and decent conscience by many society’s standards, is thought to be one that determines natural justice (what is known to be right or wrong) for its self while incorporating the code of morality already in place.

The Ten Commandments, an ancient text from the Old Testament in the Judeo-Christian Bible, are moral and ethical rules which guide the devout. Interestingly, most commandments explain what one should not do, rather than what rights one has. This may be in

On the other hand, he believes that the pursuit of happiness and wisdom, along with spreading love and goodness, cannot be achieved without learning. Those who believe in something but have not studied or experienced it cannot teach others or be held as an authority. In general, I think Confucius believes that wisdom prevails over all actions as what is right.

John Stuart Mill upheld Utilitarianism, which was a philosophical movement in the late 18th century. He believes that other people should be valued above ourselves, and that we should take care to make them comfortable and show concern. In doing this, we must provide “ the greatest good for the greatest number of people”. He does say that the ideal existence is one that is “farthest from evil and pain” and the way to uphold this is not on a selfish level. Therefore, all decisions made that are decidedly “right”, are those which benefit the greatest number of people. Self-sacrifice is held high in this view, and that would be the measure of all decisions made in a Utilitarian society. I find this view to be noble and well intended.

Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill. I think that these commandments are in place for the well being of all people. Stealing what is not yours is supposed to be wrong. Stealing causes distress and potential harm to the victim and the offender emotionally and under governing laws. Now take into consideration the circumstances. A government steals military secrets to protect their countries interests. A man steals another man’s weapon to prevent harm to another. A man robs the rich and gives to the poor. Many will argue that stealing is justified under these and other circumstances. Adultery is much the same in dishonesty. Government and people often justify killing a few to prevent the discomfort or death of many. On a smaller scale, killing to obtain personal satisfaction or justice is punishable by laws.

The context of the Ten Commandments is blunt. Without getting into the rest of the Bible thoroughly, it seems to leave the reader to interpret its deeper meaning on his or her own. It is obvious by what our governments actions and the actions of others that people determine the true meaning of the Commandments to their own benefit.

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