Conscience and Its Types

WHAT IS CONSCIENCE

• Definition of Conscience:
  • The voice of God speaking to us in our hearts.
  • The faculty that assists in determining what is good or sinful.
  • A capacity that enables individuals to make moral choices.
  • Requires formation throughout the whole of one’s life.

TYPES OF CONSCIENCE

LAX CONSCIENCE

• Definition:
  • A conscience that recognizes what is good and what is evil.
  • However, the individual prioritizes convenience over goodness.
• Characteristics:
  • The person does not seek necessary information to make informed decisions.
  • Often perceived as lazy or irresponsible.
• Common Question:
  • Asks, "What is easiest for me?"

LEGALISTIC CONSCIENCE

• Definition:
  • A conscience aware of what is good and what is evil.
  • Primarily concerned with adherence to legal requirements.
• Characteristics:
  • Justifies actions by legality: "If it is legal, I can do it."
  • Asks, "Am I following the rules?"
  • Rarely challenges rules, even those that may be unjust.

MISINFORMED CONSCIENCE

• Definition:
  • A conscience that has been incorrectly instructed on good and evil.
• Characteristics:
  • The individual may have received misinformation or misinterpreted information.

SCRUPULOUS CONSCIENCE

• Definition:
  • A conscience that leads individuals to believe they are responsible for actions not committed or beyond their control.
• Characteristics:
  • Often overly self-critical.
  • Individuals frequently feel guilt or shame.
  • Consider situations sinful even where no sin has taken place.

INFORMED CONSCIENCE

• Definition:
  • A conscience that accurately knows what is good and what is evil and chooses to do good.
• Characteristics:
  • When a sin is committed, the individual feels guilt and takes action to rectify the situation.