Ethics - Aristotle's Virtue Ethics

Question 1

Altruism

Answer 1

Love of others , as opposed to egoism

Question 2

Anthropocentric

Answer 2

Human-centred: used , for an example as a criticism of Aristotelian virtue ethics- that it applies human values to everything , so animals do not figure as objects of moral concern for Aristotle

Question 3

Eudaimonia

Answer 3

For Aristotle. That which is the good for humans, defined (and rejected) variously as: pleasure , honour, happiness, complete well-being; defined finally as the intellectual virtue of theoria (scientific ) contemplation

Question 4

Function

Answer 4

Work or accomplishment . Something is good if it fulfils its function (Ergon)

Question 5

Hierarchy

Answer 5

Aristotle refers to the hierarchy of souls : vegetative , sensitive, rational, in which humans rank highest, since they alone possess rationality

Question 6

Mean

Answer 6

The median - specific virtues lie between two extremes - the excess and deficiency . The mean is relative to the disposition of each individual

Question 7

Phronimos

Answer 7

The man of practical wisdom who , in Aristotle’s system , is best qualified to define virtuous behaviour in any situation, his practical wisdom having been acquired by constant practice and habit

Question 8

Temperance

Answer 8

The virtue of self- control

Question 9

Theoria

Answer 9

The intellectual virtue of contemplation , which Aristotle finally decides constitutes the good life for humans

Question 10

Virtue

Answer 10

A disposition - a character trait - which is to valued , for example , courage , truthfulness , self - control , generosity , friendliness , justice and so on

Question 11

Voluntary action

Answer 11

Action brought about by the will