Military Ethics Education in Taiwan: A Multi-Channel Approach

Abstract

Three methods for ethics instruction are used in Taiwanese military education: the ‘bag-of-virtues’, value-clarification and virtue-ethics methods. This article explains, analyzes and discusses each of these, thereby giving an introduction to how military ethics is taught – and thought of – within the Taiwanese military system. Recommendations are given for how to improve the parts of the system that do not seem to live up to the stated intentions.

Key Words:

• Taiwan
• Republic of China
• ROC
• virtues
• values
• virtue ethics
• military education

Notes

1. ROC stands for Republic of China (i.e. Taiwan).

2. In the apprenticeship system, students at senior grade levels assume relatively high-level intern positions. Senior students who assume high-level intern positions possess command authority. Before the end of each academic year, a grade promotion ceremony is conducted (in which students advance to the next grade level). Higher-grade students assume greater responsibility. Before graduation, fourth-year students transfer their command authority to third-year students, thereby indicating that third-year students are now responsible for maintaining the honor of the school. This grade promotion ceremony is also called the transfer of command authority. Thus, the future fourth-year students acquire absolute leadership and must comply with the spirit of honor and serve as role models for junior students.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Yi-Ming Yu

Yi-Ming Yu is associate professor and program director of political science in the National Defense University of Taiwan. His work has appeared in Social Science Quarterly and Political Research Quarterly. His research interests include military professional ethics and Chinese military ethics.