What Does Responsibility Mean
We explain what responsibility is and what this value is like. Also, child responsibility, corporate responsibility and more.
What is liability?
Responsibility is the quality of an individual who fulfills his obligations or promises and assumes the consequences of his actions , when he performs them consciously and intentionally.
It is a virtue that is usually considered one of the most significant human principles, which can be found in practically any field, be it family, political, legal, among others.
The term "responsibility" is also used for those situations in which one or more individuals must respond or take charge of a situation , something or someone. For example: Juan is responsible for bringing the models for the oral presentation this afternoon.
See also: Commitment
The value of responsibility
Responsibility is considered a value of the human being . Through it, individuals consciously make decisions and take responsibility for the consequences that may derive from them.
This value also implies the commitment to fulfill agreements, promises and obligations. A responsible person is one who fulfills what he promised and is faithful to his obligations.
Responsibility is expressed in many areas. For example: A student is responsible when studying for exams, a parent is responsible when taking care of his child.
Although it is usually a personality trait, responsibility can be worked on and incorporated as a habit . It is linked to other values and qualities such as honesty , justice , commitment and freedom . It is a value that allows the consolidation of committed citizens and more just and orderly societies .
Types of responsibilities
Responsibility can manifest itself in various fields in which the individual acts, some types of responsibilities are:
- Social responsability. Commitment that every individual has towards others and towards society as a whole.
- Civil liability. Responsibility of an individual to compensate another person for damage caused accidentally or intentionally.
- Environmental responsibility. Commitment of every individual towards the environment that surrounds him and nature .
- Moral responsibility. Commitment of an individual to respond to personal acts and assume the punishments, penalties or recognition that they bring.
- Labor responsibility. Commitment that every employer assumes to guarantee optimal working conditions for the workers in charge.
- Criminal liability. Responsibility that an individual must assume in the face of an action punishable by law .
Children's responsibilities
Responsibility is a value that must be instilled in all citizens as it improves interpersonal relationships and contributes to harmony in a society.
Depending on the stage of the individual's life, they will assume responsibilities that respond to their ability to cope with problems, circumstances or decisions. When talking about the responsibility of children, it is important that their own characteristics are taken into account, their rights are respected and responsibilities are attributed to them that they can assume and fulfill.
Some important responsibilities to instill in children are:
- Caring for the environment.
- The importance of attending school.
- Health Care.
- Respect for others.
- The care of one's own and others' property.
- The fulfillment of school duties.
- The fulfillment of some household chores.
- The importance of oral hygiene.
- The importance of keeping promises and commitments.
- Respect for different opinions.
Corporate social responsibility
Within the scope businessman discussing business or corporate social responsibility when the companies or organizations contribute voluntarily and actively in environmental, economic and social improvements .
Corporate social responsibility includes actions that attempt to contribute to the environments and environment in which the organization operates. It usually includes projects or campaigns to contribute to caring for the environment and specific social groups.
Some examples are:
- Take measures that promote caring for the environment .
- Work against corruption .
- Support NGOs or foundations.
- Avoid pollution and excessive waste generation.
- Save energy.
- Responsible use of natural resources .
- Pursue the continuity of the company.
- Check the health and labor conditions of the workers .
- Implement forms of collaboration and association of companies.
Responsibility and freedom
The value of responsibility is closely related to the concept of freedom, because acting with freedom necessarily implies taking responsibility for the consequences of actions . The individual must know and take into account the impact that personal acts have on himself and his environment.
A su vez, la responsabilidad supone siempre el accionar libre y consciente de un individuo.
Más en: Libertad