Virtue Ethics
Virtue ethics is a major branch of normative ethics that emphasizes the virtues, or moral character, in contrast to the approach which emphasizes duties or rules (deontology) or that which emphasizes the consequences of actions (consequentialism). Here are some key aspects:
Historical Background
- Aristotle: The primary historical figure associated with virtue ethics is Aristotle. His work, particularly Nicomachean Ethics, outlines a system of virtue ethics where virtues are seen as the mean between two extremes (vices) of excess and deficiency.
- Ancient Philosophy: Virtue ethics can trace its roots back to ancient Greek philosophers like Socrates and Plato, who discussed virtues as essential components of a good life.
- Revival: After being somewhat eclipsed by deontological and utilitarian ethics in modern philosophy, virtue ethics saw a revival in the late 20th century, primarily through the work of scholars like Elizabeth Anscombe who criticized modern moral philosophy for its legalistic and consequentialist tendencies.
Core Concepts
- Virtues: These are qualities deemed morally good and are considered essential for living a good life. Examples include courage, temperance, justice, and practical wisdom.
- Eudaimonia: Often translated as "flourishing" or "happiness," this concept is central to Aristotelian virtue ethics, where the ultimate goal of human life is to achieve this state through virtuous living.
- Phronesis (Practical Wisdom): The virtue of practical wisdom or moral discernment, which enables one to choose the right action at the right time, in the right way.
- Character: Virtue ethics focuses on developing a good character through habituation and practice of virtues.
Key Philosophers and Contributors
- Aristotle - His ethical framework has been the cornerstone for much of the discussion on virtues.
- Elizabeth Anscombe - Her paper "Modern Moral Philosophy" (1958) is often credited with sparking the revival of virtue ethics.
- Alasdair MacIntyre - His book After Virtue (1981) presents a critique of contemporary moral philosophy and advocates for a return to virtue ethics.
- Martha Nussbaum - Known for her work in developing a neo-Aristotelian approach to ethics.
Application and Criticisms
- Practical Application: Virtue ethics has been applied in areas like business ethics, medical ethics, and environmental ethics, focusing on how individuals can cultivate virtues in their professional and personal lives.
- Criticisms:
- It's often criticized for being too vague or difficult to apply in practical decision-making scenarios.
- There's an issue of moral relativism since virtues might vary across cultures.
- Some argue it doesn't provide clear guidelines for resolving ethical dilemmas.
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