"Moral Courage" by Kidder (2003). This book presents an aspect of ethical behavior and leadership, moral courage, needed to make brave ethical decisions in the face of conflicting forces and goals.
Chapter one of the book, ""Standing Up for Principle," presents the issues related to standing up for one's principles, a critical aspect of moral courage. This position does not always present immediate results and it is difficulty when standing up for the principle is harder than going against it. The author presents examples of moral courage, noting that it comes in many different forms and with people who may or may not be known. Moral courage in any case includes a commitment to the principle, awareness of the danger of standing up for the principle, and a willingness to endure that danger (p. 7). Kidder explained in this chapter that moral courage is important since it is a core virtue of humanity and it needs to be expressed. Checkpoints on the path of moral courage are provided: assess the situation, scan for values, stand for conscience, contemplate the dangers, endure the hardship, avoid the pitfalls, and develop moral courage (p. 17).
"Courage, Moral and Physical," Chapter Two of the book, presents the topic of courage and noted distinctions between moral and physical courage. Physical courage includes physical acts of bravery that are daring to face danger. Moral courage is less gallant and bold and includes a deep conviction to a moral principle. Again, a moral courage checklist is presented with the first step: assessing the situation. Questions that must be asked of the self relate to motives, inhibitions, perceived risks, who is the most suited for the action, and whether the consequences be endured (pp. 37-38).
"The Courage to Be Moral," Chapter Three of the book, presents the notion that it takes courage to be a moral person. Kidder makes note that words associated with a moral standing, as describ...