Omantunnon

Omantunnon is a Finnish noun in the genitive form of omantunto, meaning conscience. The term denotes the inner sense of right and wrong that guides behavior and can arouse feelings of guilt, remorse, or moral unease when actions conflict with personal or societal standards. It functions as a central concept in discussions of ethics, morality, and self-evaluation.

Etymology and usage. Omantunto combines oma- (“own”) with tunto (“feeling, sense”), reflecting the idea of a personal, inward moral sense. In ordinary language, omantunnon is used to describe the moral pressure or peace associated with one’s actions, as in phrases such as omantunnon rauha (the peace of conscience) or omantunnon kuorma (the burden of conscience). The form omantunnon is typically employed in possessive constructions, for example omantunnon ääni (the voice of conscience) or omantunnon vaikutus (the influence of conscience).

Context and interpretation. In Finnish literature, religion, and ethical discussions, the concept of omantunto is central to questions of responsibility, guilt, and repentance. While folk and religious discourse often frame conscience as an inner guide aligned with moral law, secular philosophy and psychology view it as a source of moral emotions that influences judgment and behavior. The distinction between omantunto’s demands and external norms is a common point of discussion in moral discourse.

See also. Omantunto (conscience)