Andre Carson: “Webster's New World Dictionary, Third college Edition defines "character" as "moral strength, self-discipline…”

“Webster's New World Dictionary, Third college Edition defines "character" as "moral strength, self-discipline, fortitude." The pillars which guide ethical decision-making, which make up character are: Trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, citizenship. Trustworthiness includes morality, honesty, truthfulness, sincerity, candor, loyalty and integrity. Respect includes civility, courtesy and decency. Being responsible means being in charge of our choices and, thus, our lives. It means being accountable for what we do and who we are. Fairness involves issues of equality, impartiality, proportionality and openness. Caring is ultimately about our responsibilities toward other people. A person who really cares feels an emotional response to both the pain and pleasure of others. The concept of citizenship includes civic virtues and duties that prescribe how we ought to behave as part of a community. The good citizen gives more than he or she takes. As leaders of this great nation, especially at this time, we must be examples of strong, moral unblemished character and encourage the young people of this nation to replicate these attributes in all their ways and conduct.”