The Importance of Integrity

723 Words3 Pages
The Importance of Integrity The importance of integrity varies from person to person. Webster's dictionary defines integrity as "A firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values, and unimpaired condition, and the quality or state of being complete or undivided." A common saying in The United States Marine Corps sums up the definition of integrity by stating, that integrity is "Doing what is right, even when no one is looking." This essay will cover the importance of integrity and where an individual may stand when it comes to this subject. Some of the topics to be discussed are: Where someone gains, or fails to gain integrity. When integrity is needed. How the military promotes integrity in the workplace and beyond. This will outline how integrity is gained, fostered, and seen in every day activities. Is integrity something that someone is born with, or something that is instilled throughout the course of life? Parents and close family members are the first people who have an impact on integrity at a young age. When growing up, a child is taught the morals and values they eventually will possess. The direct impact family has on integrity can be measured by their adherence to personal morals. Integrity can be gained over time, regardless of what was taught during ones early years. People have gained integrity and values concerning their morals through encouragement, discipline, and guidance from individuals like those in the military. The United States Marine Corps places integrity among its fourteen leadership traits. These leadership traits are what young Marines are taught from their first days as a recruit, and charged to uphold as the Marine climbs the ranks. There are individuals that feel integrity should only be practiced as needed, a switch that can be turned on an off as the situation dictates. The truth is that personal integrity should be
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