Moral obligation

/ˈmɔrəl ˌɑbləˈɡeɪʃən/ noun

Definition

A duty or responsibility to act in accordance with moral principles, binding on rational agents regardless of their personal desires. What one ought to do from a moral standpoint.

Etymology

From Latin 'moralis' (relating to character) and 'obligatio' (binding, duty). The concept developed through medieval philosophy and was refined by modern moral philosophers like Kant.

Kelly Says

Moral obligations are like invisible contracts we didn't sign but are still bound by—they come with being rational, thinking beings. They're what make us feel guilty when we do wrong, even when no one is watching.

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