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President Richard Nixon And The Watergate Scandal

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1. The Watergate Scandal in 1972 revealed many ethical dilemmas in President Richard Nixon and his administration. President Nixon proves to be a teleological egoist as he determines what is right is what will benefit himself the most. Additionally, he has a subjective theory of the good because what is good is determined by how he feels about it. When deciding to break in to the Democratic National Headquarters, both Nixon and the five agents of the Committee to Reelect the President lacked prudence because they did not act wisely. Furthermore, White House officials and Nixon attempted to bribe Watergate defendants reveal their lack of integrity (DeGregorio). By denying the accusations, Nixon has the virtue of silence because he does not say anything that will incriminate him but lacks honesty (DeGregorio). Nixon and the five burglars have the duty of self-improvement because they are trying to do everything they can to enhance the public …show more content…

As a teleological universalist, Aristotle would claim Nixon did not act morally because he hurt America and its reputation while trying to benefit his political party. Aristotle argues that life experiences are the foundation for human's morality (Ray 65). A society must have industry and order for morality to flourish (Ray 68). According to Aristotle, industry is important because virtues must be habitually practiced in order to live a moral life. Nixon regularly practiced the opposite of the virtues that promote a moral life. He showed his lack of morality by repeatedly lying about his involvement in the scandal, displaying his lack of honesty and integrity. Additionally, Aristotle believes that interactions and our actions in the world shape our character (Ray 67). Nixon's character is damaged because of his involvement in the Watergate Scandal and the way he went about responding to the situation. His character was impacted in a negative way as a result of his decision to act with a soft mind and hard heart as

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