Integrity is firstly the quality of being honest. Someone who has integrity will speak the truth even when this is inconvenient or uncomfortable, and they will do what is morally right even when this is against their own interests.
For example, a shopkeeper or trader who has integrity will not lie about the quality of the products they have for sale nor will they try to disguise any defects in their stock.
A person of integrity will have a commitment to justice and fairness. They will treat everyone according to the same rules and principles, and they will not make arbitrary exceptions for particular people. Moreover, they will not grant themselves special benefits or privileges at the expense of others. They will not be corrupt.
Crucially, integrity is a fundamental moral quality. Someone with integrity will have a coherent set of values and principles which may ideally amount to a complete worldview.
In this case a person’s beliefs and actions will be guided by a moral or ethical framework. They will display consistency and authenticity in what they say and do, and they will take responsibility for the consequences of their actions.
Integrity is an essential component of an ethical life.