Context:

In the face of moral decay in society, Peter Wehner argues for the revitalization of integrity as a core virtue, drawing on historical and fictional examples to illustrate its importance. Integrity, a synthesis of virtues, is essential for a coherent moral character, enabling individuals to act consistently with their values. The erosion of integrity in contemporary politics, exemplified by figures like Donald Trump, highlights the need for moral exemplars who inspire admiration for character excellence. Historical figures such as George Washington and fictional characters like Detective Foyle from 'Foyle’s War' serve as models of integrity, demonstrating the power of moral consistency. The cultivation of integrity requires nurturing our inherent moral sense and seeking allies who embody these values, whether real or fictional, to guide society towards ethical behavior.

Dive Deeper:

• Jean Guéhenno's resistance to Nazi propaganda in occupied France underscores the importance of integrity, refusing to write under the regime's influence, contrasting with contemporaries who compromised their values.

• Integrity is described as a synthesis of virtues, creating moral coherence and inner harmony, unlike isolated virtues which may lead to contradictory actions, as illustrated by historical figures like Al Capone.

• The decline of integrity in modern politics, with Donald Trump as a prominent example, showcases the normalization of immoral behavior, as supporters overlook ethical breaches in favor of political gains.

• Historical figures like George Washington exemplify integrity through consistent moral conduct and self-restraint, setting a standard for leaders by prioritizing public virtues alongside private character purity.

• Fictional characters like Detective Foyle in 'Foyle’s War' demonstrate the power of integrity through unwavering moral compasses, resisting external pressures and embodying honor and responsibility.

• James Q. Wilson's assertion that moral sense is rooted in human nature highlights the necessity of nurturing ethical behavior, encouraging the recognition of integrity in real and fictional role models.

• C. S. Lewis's emphasis on the influence of heroic stories on children suggests that both children and adults benefit from narratives that inspire courage and integrity, shaping their understanding of morality.