Gilligan’s Perception of Morality in An American Story :: American Story Essays

Gilligans Perception of Morality in An American chronicleThough individuals live by and react similarly to various situations, non all people have the same examples. I can disturb to instances where I have supported a belief, regardless of the criticisms that arise, all because my survival is based upon personal moral philosophy. The same can be said regarding Debra J. Dickerson as she expresses in her novel, An American Story. In Carol Gilligans Concepts of Self and Morality, she states, The moral person is one who helps others goodness in service, meeting ones obligations and responsibilities to others, if possible without sacrificing oneself (170). After considering this statement, I strongly feel that Gilligans proposition lacks the depth to accurately characterize the moral person, but I am able to accept the argument increase by Joan Didion. Her essay entitled, On Morality, clearly provides a more compelling and acceptable statement in describing the moral person by sa ying, I followed my own conscience, I did what I thought was right (181). Joan Didions proposal is precise and acceptable. It is obvious that as long as people follow what they believe is the right thing to do, and approach the situation maturely, their actions can be considered examples of morality, and they can then be considered moral human beings. A moral person goes beyond the phrase, without sacrificing oneself, provided by Gilligan in her essay. This is clear by looking back at a specific example. I can recall a time when an full class of mine decided to play a trick on a teacher in high school. They planned on manipulating her by telling lies in regard to what she had assigned and made her feel embarrassed. I wanted not to be part of these hurtful actions, so alternatively than tagging along as most of the other students, I did something about it. I stood my ground and as the students told one lie after another, I raised my hand and made her aware of the prank that was being executed. Though everyone looked upon me as the one who spoiled everything, the simple gesture of raising my hand revealed my morals to the class. At the time, I followed my conscience and followed through with what I thought was right, whether others hold with me or not. This clearly supports and exemplifies Didons explanation of the moral person.