Page 90 - MDSL Final

MARITIME DOCTRINE OF SRI LANKA
Moral Component

The moral component concerns the human aspect of maritime fighting
power. Warfare is a human activity and the moral component exerts a
decisive psychological influence, both individually and collectively. While
morals (principles of right and wrong) are one aspect which enhances
cohesion and morale (a sense of confidence and well-being) is another
which promotes courage and commitment. The moral component is
considerably broader.

The moral component of fighting power is about ability to get people to
fight. It comprises following three interrelated functions: 52

• Moral cohesion (prepared to fight).
• Motivation (enthused to fight).
• Leadership (inspired to fight).

Moral Cohesion

Moral is the sense of shared identity and a determined purpose that
gives a force the will to fight and succeed. Moral integrity supports
cohesion. Cohesion occurs when individuals work together, share tasks
and rewards, and provide mutual support to achieve a common aim.
Moral cohesion is built on shared experiences, a common sense of
worth, appropriate discipline and collective identity and;

• Sustained by shared common values and standards. SLN core
values were evolved and inculcated over a period of 69 years
and these values define what is important to the Navy as a
whole and to its people individually. Our values guide our
behaviour, they bind us together and is a source of strength
and a source of moral courage to help shape our actions.
Values are the rules which we make decisions about right and
wrong, good and bad, should and shouldnot.
• Embodies genuine and profound comradeship that endures
even as the experience of violence and fear of death and injury
begin to pervade an individual’s conscious and subconscious.

72 To Nurture a Stable Environment at Sea