Aristotelian Virtue Ethics

Definition

Aristotelian virtue ethics is a moral philosophy that emphasizes the importance of developing good character traits, or virtues, as the foundation for ethical behavior. This approach suggests that by cultivating virtues such as courage, temperance, and wisdom, individuals can achieve eudaimonia, or human flourishing. Unlike other ethical theories that focus on rules or consequences, Aristotelian virtue ethics posits that a virtuous character leads to right actions and decisions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aristotle believed that virtues are habits developed over time, requiring practice and commitment to achieve a balanced character.
2. Virtue ethics focuses on the moral agent's character rather than the rightness or wrongness of specific actions, making it distinct from deontological or consequentialist ethics.
3. In Aristotelian virtue ethics, the community plays a vital role in shaping an individual's virtues, emphasizing the social context of moral development.
4. The cultivation of virtues is seen as essential not only for personal well-being but also for contributing positively to society and fostering harmonious relationships.
5. Aristotle argued that intellectual virtues, such as wisdom and understanding, complement moral virtues and are necessary for making sound judgments.

Review Questions

• How does Aristotelian virtue ethics differ from consequentialist and deontological ethical theories?
  • Aristotelian virtue ethics stands apart from consequentialist theories, which focus on the outcomes of actions, and deontological theories, which prioritize adherence to moral rules. Instead of evaluating actions based on their consequences or conformity to rules, virtue ethics emphasizes the importance of developing a virtuous character. This approach posits that individuals who cultivate virtues will naturally make ethical decisions, as their character aligns with moral goodness.
• What role do community and relationships play in the development of virtues according to Aristotelian ethics?
  • In Aristotelian virtue ethics, community and relationships are crucial for the cultivation of virtues. Aristotle believed that individuals are shaped by their social environments and interactions with others. A supportive community provides opportunities for individuals to practice virtues and receive guidance in moral development. The shared values and norms within a community can encourage individuals to strive for excellence and promote flourishing both personally and collectively.
• Evaluate the implications of adopting Aristotelian virtue ethics in contemporary moral discussions about character education and personal responsibility.
  • Adopting Aristotelian virtue ethics in contemporary moral discussions highlights the significance of character education and personal responsibility. This ethical framework encourages individuals to focus on becoming virtuous rather than merely following rules or seeking outcomes. In practice, this means prioritizing traits like honesty, integrity, and empathy in educational settings, fostering environments where moral development is emphasized. The implications extend beyond individual behavior; cultivating a virtuous society can lead to stronger relationships, enhanced social cohesion, and a collective commitment to eudaimonia.

Related terms

Eudaimonia: A Greek term often translated as 'flourishing' or 'well-being', eudaimonia is the ultimate goal of human life in Aristotelian ethics, achieved through the practice of virtue.

Virtue: A positive character trait or quality deemed to be morally good, virtues are central to Aristotelian ethics and guide individuals toward achieving eudaimonia.

Doctrine of the Mean: Aristotle's concept that moral virtue lies between two extremes, advocating for balance and moderation in behavior and decision-making.