Modern Virtue Theory - Macintyre

Question 1

What was his book called and when was it written?

Answer 1

After virtue

1980s

Question 2

What analogy did he use and what did it mean?

Answer 2

The jigsaw analogy to explain that we had lost sight of what morality meant

Question 3

Why did macintyre used a jigsaw to explain the situation?

Answer 3

Because we have the language of morality but there are too many other theories
It is like having the pieces of a jigsaw without the picture

Question 4

What was macintyre’s solution

Answer 4

We need to recover the virtues and work out as a society which characteristics are important.

Once we do this we can then develop ourselves as people and have a better understanding of what makes a good person.

Question 5

What is the 1st part of the process macintyre suggested for working out a virtuous action?

Answer 5

Take the practice and ask 3 questions:

1. Does it have standards?
2. Is it developing?
3. Is it social?

Question 6

What is the 2nd part of the process macintyre suggested for working out a virtuous action?

Answer 6

Does the practice balance with the rest of your life - link to golden mean

Question 7

What is the 3rd part of the process macintyre suggested for working out a virtuous action?

Answer 7

Be aware of existing moral traditions in society