Moral virtues

Definition

Moral virtues are traits or qualities deemed to be morally good and are valued as a foundation for good moral being. They are essential in forming a person's character and guiding ethical behavior within a community. In the context of virtue ethics, especially as discussed by MacIntyre, moral virtues are deeply embedded in social traditions that provide meaning and context to human actions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. MacIntyre argues that moral virtues are not universal but are rather developed through specific social practices and traditions.
2. The practice of moral virtues is essential for achieving what MacIntyre calls 'the good life', where individuals contribute to their communities while realizing their own potential.
3. Moral virtues include traits like honesty, courage, compassion, and justice, which help individuals navigate ethical dilemmas.
4. In MacIntyre's view, modern society often lacks a coherent understanding of moral virtues due to the fragmentation of traditions.
5. Moral virtues are cultivated through narrative practices, meaning individuals learn their significance through stories and experiences shared within their communities.

Review Questions

• How does MacIntyre's view on moral virtues challenge contemporary ethical frameworks?
  • MacIntyre's perspective on moral virtues presents a challenge to contemporary ethical frameworks by emphasizing the importance of traditions and social contexts over universal principles. He argues that modern ethical theories often overlook how moral virtues are shaped by specific community practices and narratives. By situating morality within the framework of lived experiences and communal traditions, MacIntyre suggests that understanding moral virtues requires recognizing their historical and social roots.
• Discuss the relationship between moral virtues and the concept of 'the good life' as presented by MacIntyre.
  • In MacIntyre's philosophy, there is a direct relationship between moral virtues and the concept of 'the good life.' He asserts that living a good life is not just about personal fulfillment but involves contributing to the well-being of one's community through the practice of moral virtues. This means that individuals develop their character through engaging with others in meaningful ways, thus aligning personal goals with communal values. The good life is achieved when one embodies these virtues within the context of a tradition that provides purpose.
• Evaluate how MacIntyre's ideas on moral virtues can inform modern ethical discussions about individualism and community.
  • MacIntyre's ideas about moral virtues offer critical insights into modern ethical discussions surrounding individualism and community. By arguing that moral virtues are rooted in communal traditions rather than isolated individual choices, he encourages a re-evaluation of how ethics can be understood today. In an increasingly individualistic society, his framework suggests that fostering strong communities is vital for nurturing moral virtues. This approach challenges the notion that ethical behavior is solely a personal affair, emphasizing instead that personal morality is inextricably linked to the health and values of the community at large.

Related terms

Character: The combination of mental and ethical traits marking a person, which includes their moral virtues.

Virtue Ethics: A philosophical approach that emphasizes the role of character and virtue in moral philosophy, contrasting with deontological and consequentialist frameworks.

Tradition: The transmission of customs or beliefs from generation to generation, which plays a crucial role in shaping the moral virtues of individuals within a community.