Stephen Finch: Scandal character profile

Stephen Finch, a prominent character in the hit TV show Scandal, is often portrayed as a man of unwavering moral principles. As a former employee of the United States Attorney's Office and a current member of Olivia Pope's crisis management firm, OPA, Stephen finds himself torn between his inherent desire to uphold justice and the compromises he must make in his line of work. In this blog post, we will delve into the complexities of Stephen Finch's character, analyzing his moral struggles and their implications on the show.From the very beginning, it is clear that Stephen is driven by a strong sense of morality. He firmly believes in the rule of law and the pursuit of truth, often making no allowances for compromise. This unwavering stance is what initially draws Olivia Pope to recruit him into her elite team. His dedication to justice and his willingness to make difficult choices align with Olivia's own principles, creating a strong bond between the two characters.However, as Stephen delves deeper into the world of crisis management with OPA, he begins to confront the ethical dilemmas that come with the territory. In many instances, he finds himself in situations where the lines between right and wrong become blurred. As OPA's clients range from corrupt politicians to high-profile criminals, Stephen wrestles with the conflicting notions of serving justice and protecting the reputations of those who may not necessarily deserve it.This internal struggle showcases Stephen's complexity as a character. He recognizes the moral compromises he must make in his work, yet he can't help but question the long-term consequences of his actions. Is it truly justifiable to manipulate the truth or spin narratives to save the reputation of a flawed individual? These dilemmas force Stephen to confront his own beliefs and reassess his role within OPA.To understand Stephen's moral struggles more deeply, we can analyze his character through the lens of ethical theories. One relevant concept is utilitarianism, which suggests that the right decision is one that maximizes overall happiness or minimizes harm for the majority. Stephen's role at OPA often requires prioritizing the reputation and well-being of individuals, even if it means bending the truth or compromising his personal beliefs. This tension between serving the greater good and maintaining personal integrity becomes a constant source of inner conflict for Stephen.On the other hand, Stephen also exhibits characteristics of deontological ethics, which emphasizes duty and adherence to a set of moral rules. His commitment to the law and his belief in the inherent worth of justice drive him to question the morally ambiguous tactics employed by OPA. Stephen's dilemma arises when he realizes that the noble ends pursued by OPA may not always justify the questionable means they employ.This internal struggle makes Stephen Finch a compelling and relatable character. Many viewers can empathize with his moral dilemmas, as they reflect the real-world ethical conundrums that individuals in positions of power often face. Stephen's journey serves as a reminder that upholding one's principles can be a challenging task, especially when conflicting interests and situations arise.It is worth noting that Stephen's character arc extends beyond his struggles with morality. As the series progresses, he undergoes significant personal growth and transformation. Without giving away too many spoilers, Stephen eventually reaches a turning point where he must make a choice between loyalty and justice. This pivotal moment not only showcases his moral development but also adds depth to the overall narrative of the show.In conclusion, Stephen Finch's character in Scandal embodies the struggle between maintaining moral principles and navigating the compromises inherent in his work with OPA. His unwavering dedication to justice, coupled with the ethical dilemmas he faces, makes him a complex and relatable character for viewers of the show. By analyzing his moral struggles through the lens of ethical theories, we gain a deeper understanding of the conflicting forces that shape his actions. Ultimately, Stephen's journey serves as a reminder of the challenges inherent in upholding one's principles in a world where compromise often seems inevitable.