Character and Enterprise
Defining "Character"
What makes a human life worthwhile? What is important to us? What is going to give our lives more meaning? The ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus’ (341–270 B.C) view of life was simple in that the primary goal was to maximise happiness and pleasure and to avoid physical pain, anxiety or disturbance (Konstan, 2005). However, a deeper view of humanness has been explored throughout history with a much more positive view of human character.
This article is a summary of various perspectives on character, concluding with a working definition of Character and Virtues.
Character as personal flourishing and citizenship
Our moral fabric is reflected in who we are and how this impacts others (Miller, 2018).
In ancient Greece, Aristotle described seeking ‘phronesis’, practical wisdom or good sense allowing the individual to contribute productively as a citizen. Aristotle invoked the relationship between virtue and happiness in achieving a state of full personal flourishing or as he called it, eudaimonia (Peterson & Seligman, 2004).
The Judeo-Christian perspective closely considers virtuous behaviour impacting the individual and society. From the wisdom of the Book of Proverbs to the model, example and invitation of Jesus as presented in New Testament Gospels there is an understanding of character as a personal attribute for the benefit of oneself and society (Piestsch, 2018).
From the Eastern traditions, the teachings of Confucius encouraged virtues such as humanity, justice, honesty, etiquette, wisdom, and truthfulness as being good for the individual and society. Like in Christianity, Confucianism promotes selfless love and compassion being central to the method of humanity (Peterson & Seligman, 2004).
Character as Aspiration
Another aspect that defines character concerns a forward-focused view of life where one looks to ‘become’ rather than ‘be’ in the present (Pietsch, 2018).
From a Biblical perspective, the Christian aspires to develop Christ-like virtues showing high moral standards and caring for others in a manner where the needs of others are put before their own (e.g. Philippians 2:1-10, 4:8). Likewise, eastern traditions have their unique list of virtues and vices to focus on becoming a better person. Examples include the five virtues of character of the Taoist Tradition, to Hinduism’s emphasis on self-improvement, and the Buddhist Virtues of the Eightfold Path (Peterson & Seligman, 2004). Each have their own purposes and means of attainment, but there is substantial overlap in the values that are aspired to.
Character as Success
Crisis and opportunities befall every life and often it is how one responds to these situations that determines success. We may consider it character that determines whether one responds successfully.
In his book ‘Integrity’, Dr Henry Cloud highlights how our morals and ethics safeguard our relationships, business, government, finance, and personal lives (Cloud, 2009). He defines character as the ability to meet the demands of reality.
Similarly, Peterson & Seligman consider character as “traits that recognise individual differences that are stable and general but also shaped by the individual’s setting and thus capable of change” (p.10). Whilst a person’s strengths and virtues highlight their differences from others, their positive traits need to be placed in context with each situation they are in (Peterson & Seligman, 2004).
A definition of Character.
Bringing these perspectives together, character traits or virtues, are what shape us. They allow us to make the right decision, at the right time and for the right reason. Character is the accumulation of continued deposits of choices and actions brought on through the experiences we have and thus can be developed. In this way, character metabolises each experience we endure or are exposed to. It enables human beings to respond appropriately in their lives, cooperate and learn with others in a manner that is peaceful, neighbourly, and morally justifiable. Finally, it is the factor that enables us to be successful in our given vocations, tasks, and interests.
The Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues, based at the University of Birmingham, is a leading voice in the UK and around the world on character and virtues. The report offers particularly helpful definitions of character and virtues.
(Character is a) set of personal traits or dispositions that produce specific moral emotions, inform motivation, and guide conduct.
They also offer a definition of Virtues.
(Virtues are) positive personal strengths.
These key definitions provide a succinct understanding of what is meant by character. In a school setting such a definition may be helpful to students, staff, and parents in achieving a shared understanding of character and foundational knowledge in learning about Character Education.
An extended essay on this topic can be downloaded here.
This blog is the first in a series. Click here to read the second blog "Character Education".
Reference List
Cloud, H. (2009). Integrity: the courage to meet the demands of reality. How six essential qualities determine your success in Business. Harper, New York.
Konstan, D. (2005). Epicurus. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/epicurus/
Miller, C. B. (2018). The Character Gap. Oxford University Press, New York.
Peterson, C & Seligman, M. (2004). Character Strengths and Virtues: A Handbook and Classification. Oxford University Press, New York.
Pietsch, J. (2018). Character Reborn: A philosophy of Christian Education. Acorn Press, Sydney.
The Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues, (2022). The Jubilee Centre Framework for Character Education in Schools. The University of Birmingham, Birmingham.
Peter Gibson
Peter Gibson is the Dean of Character Education at Barker College. Previously, Head of Senior School (Deputy Principal) at Shellharbour Anglican College and Head of Boarding at Trinity Grammar School, he is a highly experienced educational leader. Peter has led school communities in the development of academic performance built on a Growth Mindset approach to learning. He has been successful in leading the development of the pastoral care programs and has extensive breadth of experience and expertise in co-curricular activities. In his current role, he is leading an exciting innovation in developing the concept of Character and Enterprise Education as well as the implementation of Round Square K-12.
