What does amoral mean Meaning and Definition
What does amoral mean
Pronunciation
/æˈmɔːrəl/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Lacking a sense of moral principles or values; not concerned with right or wrong.
Examples
- The amoral businessman was accused of unethical practices.
- Her amoral behavior towards her friends was disturbing.
Synonyms
- Immoral
- Unprincipled
Antonyms
- Moral
- Ethical
Additional Information
Amoral individuals often prioritize self-interest over moral considerations. This does not necessarily mean they are immoral, but rather that they do not acknowledge or recognize moral standards. The term can be applied to actions, decisions, or entire systems that lack a moral compass.
In philosophy, the concept of amorality is central to debates about moral relativism and the nature of morality. Some argue that morality is a human construct, making it relative and subjective. Others claim that morality is objective and based on universal principles.
The term “amoral” originated in the 17th century, derived from the Greek prefix “a-” meaning “without” and the Latin “moralis” meaning “pertaining to morals”.
Usage Notes
When describing someone as amoral, it is essential to avoid implying that they are necessarily bad or evil. Amorality can be a neutral or even positive trait in certain contexts, such as in scientific or artistic pursuits where moral considerations may be irrelevant.
Cultural References
The concept of amorality has been explored in various works of literature, such as Friedrich Nietzsche’s “Thus Spoke Zarathustra” and Ayn Rand’s “The Fountainhead”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Amoral code”, referring to a set of principles or rules that disregard moral considerations.
Related Words or Phrases
- Immoral
- Moral ambiguity
Collocations
- “Amoral behavior”
- “Amoral decision-making”
Frequency of Use
The term “amoral” is moderately frequent in modern language, often used in philosophical, psychological, and sociological contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Amorall
- Ammoral