Ndërgjegjen

Ndërgjegjen is the definite form of the Albanian noun ndërgjegje, which means the conscience. It denotes the internal moral sense that informs judgments of right and wrong and often functions as an inner voice or moral compass. A person who acts against ndërgjegjen may feel guilt or remorse, while acting in harmony with it is typically associated with integrity and self-respect. In everyday speech, ndërgjegja is used to describe this inner guide and its influence on behavior.

In Albanian literature and common discourse, the conscience is treated as a central source of moral accountability. People speak of listening to ndërgjegjen; guilt or remorse can arise when it is neglected or violated, while a clear conscience is linked to personal integrity and responsibility.

Context: The concept transcends religious boundaries; in Catholic, Muslim, and Orthodox Albanian communities, as well as secular ethics, ndërgjegja is discussed as an inner criterion guiding actions toward others and oneself. The term remains central to debates about character, responsibility, and social ethics in Albanian-speaking societies.