The study of moral consciousness has always been an indispensable philosophical discipline and yet somehow it has constantly eluded the reach of definitive conclusions. Since Socrates spoke the words: "The unexamined life is not worth living" (Apology 38A) philosophers have been systematically engaged in the task of evaluating normative standards of human behaviour. The ebb and flow of philosophic thought has produced diverse theories which individually have sought to consolidate ideals of moral conduct. It remains an on-going process.