Amoral

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˌeɪˈmɔːrəl/

Definitions

• Having no moral standards, restraints, or principles; neither moral nor immoral.
• Unconcerned with the rightness or wrongness of something.

Usage Examples

• The character in the novel is portrayed as entirely amoral, driven solely by self-interest.
• An amoral decision may be practical but ignores ethical considerations.
• Nature itself is amoral, functioning without regard for human morality.

Etymology

Derived from the prefix "a-" meaning "without" and the Latin root "moral," which comes from "moralis," meaning "pertaining to manners or morality." First recorded in English in the 19th century.

Synonyms

• Nonmoral
• Unprincipled
• Neutral

Antonyms

• Moral
• Ethical
• Principled

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "amoral" varies between American English (/ˌeɪˈmɔːrəl/) and British English (/ˌeɪˈmɒrəl/). Additionally, regional accents may emphasize different syllables.

Historical Usage

The term "amoral" gained prominence in the 19th century as a descriptor for actions or philosophies that reject moral categorizations. It has been frequently discussed in philosophical and literary works addressing ethics and human behavior.

Cultural Nuances

In cultural contexts, "amoral" is often used to critique entities or systems perceived as indifferent to ethical considerations, such as corporations or political structures. Philosophical debates distinguish between "amoral" (lacking morality) and "immoral" (violating morality).

More Information

The distinction between "amoral" and "immoral" is a crucial point in ethics and philosophy. While "amoral" refers to an absence of moral consideration, "immoral" implies a violation of established moral codes. This distinction is significant in discussions of human behavior, artificial intelligence, and natural phenomena.