In "To Kill a Mockingbird," what makes Atticus Finch the moral center of the story?

Atticus Finch is the moral center of the novel for a number of reasons. The reason that stretches throughout the novel is that he tries to teach Jem and Scout what it means to be a good person. However, he could do that and just be preachy.

 

Three major things make him the moral center of the novel. First, his response to the rabid dog. Atticus steps up to do his duty when the dog threatens people, and at risk to himself. That's a symbolic lead up to the second thing, which is Atticus' defense of Tom. He tackles a complex political issue, he does the right thing, and he does it with class. Third, his influence on others. Look at Mr. Tate's dealings with Atticus in Chapter 30.