Character flaws

While character can be easily explained as the attribute or habit of an individual, it is harder to discuss flaws of the character.

Character is a neutral concept, but when we are discussing flaws, we are making a negative value judgment.

To determine what comprises a character flaw, we have to decide the most basic and eternal of all questions – what is right and wrong? What is the difference between good and bad? Positive and negative?

However, it is important to remember that character is holistic ... it encompasses all aspects of our lives. And yet, it is almost impossible to find even one person who is not flawed in some way. By those standards, we all have flawed characters. Perhaps, it is not realistic to expect flawless characters.

What society (and that means all of us) does object to is the kind of flaw that is detrimental to others. For instance, I may drink too much coffee. But no one would really describe it as a character flaw. Too much coffee consumption is not likely to hurt others around me.

But if I did something that did affect other people – their livelihoods, their health, their safety or even their moods  that would really bother everyone. For instance, if I constantly fly into violent fits of temper, it would be unacceptable. No one would want to live with me, and after a certain point, I would be told to seek medical treatment because I pose a risk to society.

When analyzing characters, your own or anyone elses, remember to keep this in mind. If flaws, or negative twists of character, are inevitable, it is better to leave those alone that are merely personal choices. Focus on changing those flaws that affect others.

 Author Annie Zaidi. Copyright 2004. indian child.com