The Universal Moral Compass

At the core of human conscience, according to several authors, lies a universal system of values that far surpasses subjective feelings. Contrary to common belief, conscience is not merely a fleeting emotion but a profound internal compass, based on an objective moral law inherent in every individual. This concept helps us understand that moral consciousness is formed under the influence of an immutable order of absolute values that serve as our guide when choosing between good and evil.

Many texts assert that this moral law is not subject to the influences of cultural or temporal differences, underscoring its universality. Man, the only being capable of comprehending the concept of morality, possesses a unique ability to recognize true good, rooted in an objective understanding of the world. This perspective transforms conscience into an undeniable guardian of both personal and public ethics, capable of steering us toward the path of real choice.

From this standpoint, one can say that an objective hierarchy of values is a fundamental element of the human soul, serving as a beacon in the decision-making process. This internal system of principles not only helps differentiate between good and evil, but also acts as the highest judge of our actions, motives, and intentions, prompting us to seek truth in every moral decision.

Is there a universal standard of conscience, and what role does it play in a person’s moral choice? The answer to your question can be based on the idea that there exists an objective, universal system of values that forms the basis of human conscience and determines moral choices. As the quotations indicate, conscience is not merely a subjective feeling or arbitrary emotion but has its roots in an objective hierarchy of values that is perceived deep within the human being.

Thus, some sources argue that a universal standard of conscience exists as an objective moral law. One text notes, "The essence of conscience lies in its direct orientation toward an objective hierarchy of values. The objective hierarchy of values is the condition for the possibility of conscience" (source: link ). This assertion implies that conscience is oriented toward an established order of absolute values that is universal and independent of cultural and temporal differences.

Another source emphasizes, "Across the entire globe, among all the beings that inhabit it, only man possesses the concept of morality. ... And it is these notions of morality by which man is immeasurably distinct from all animals" (source: link ). This statement reflects the idea that the universal moral law embedded within man forms his conscience and influences his ability to distinguish between good and evil.

In conclusion, the universal standard of conscience, in this conceptual framework, acts as an internal guide that directs moral consciousness and helps a person make ethical decisions based on an objective understanding of good and evil. In this way, conscience serves not only as a moral compass but also as the highest judge of our actions, motives, and intentions.

Supporting citation(s):
"The essence of conscience lies in its direct orientation toward an objective hierarchy of values. The objective hierarchy of values is the condition for the possibility of conscience" (source: link ).

"Across the entire globe, among all the beings that inhabit it, only man possesses the concept of morality. ... And it is these notions of morality by which man is immeasurably distinct from all animals" (source: link ).