Does Stress Impact Ethics Positively or Negatively?

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Stress can influence ethical behavior in complex ways, often depending on the individual and the specific situation. While some people may become more stubborn under pressure, others might falter and compromise their ethics. The discussion highlights that morals are not fixed and can be flexible based on circumstances. Historical examples, such as studies demonstrating how ordinary individuals can commit extreme acts under stress, illustrate this variability. Ultimately, everyone possesses the potential for both good and evil actions, influenced by their circumstances and stress levels.
Loren Booda
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Does stress usually compromise one's ethics or bolster them?
 
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I think that's a complicated question. Or rather requires a complicated answer. In short I think it will depend on the person and the situation. Some people can get very stubborn while others can simply break.
 
Aren't morals inherently flexible anyway depending on the situation?
 
Kurdt said:
Aren't morals inherently flexible anyway depending on the situation?

Agreed. You can look back at that study where decent people shocked a person to death for giving wrong answers. On the other hand you have Martyrs.

I think no matter our morals, we each always have the capacity to do good or evil at anyone moment, given the circumstances.
 
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