Character Education - Terminology

Terminology

"Character" is an overarching concept that is the subject of disciplines from philosophy to theology, from psychology to sociology – with many competing and conflicting theories. Character, as it relates to character education, most often refers to how 'good' a person is. In other words, a person who exhibits personal qualities that fit those a society considers desirable might be considered to have good character and developing such personal qualities is often then seen as a purpose of education. However, various proponents of character education are far from in agreement as to what "good" is or what qualities are most desirable. Compounding this problem is that there is no scientific definition of character. Because such a concept blends personality and behavioral components, scientists have long since abandoned use of the term "character" and, instead, use the term psychological motivators to measure the behavioral predispositions of individuals. With no clinically defined meaning, there is virtually no way to measure if an individual has a deficit of character, or if a school program can improve it.

The various terms in the lists of values character education programs propose—even in programs that share definitions and goals—experience the same problem of vague definitions that make need and effectiveness hard to measure.