Module 4: Key Terms Flashcards
1
Q
Virtue theory
A
ethical theory that emphasizes an individual’s character rather than following a set of rules
2
Q
What did aristotle and other virtue theorists think?
A
If we can just focus on being good people, the right actions will follow, effortlessly
3
Q
Proper Functioning
A
- everything has a function, and a thing is good to the extent that it fulfills its functions, and bad to the extent that it doesn’t
4
Q
Natural Law Theory
A
- is a system of law based on a close observation of human nature, and based on values intrinsic to human nature that can be deduced and applied independent of positive law
- According to natural law theory, all people have inherent rights, conferred not by act of legislation but by “God, nature, or reason
5
Q
What did Aristotle argue about?
A
- nature has built into us the desire to be virtuous
6
Q
Meaning of being virtuous?
A
- doing the right thing, at the right time, in the right way, in the right amount, toward the right people
7
Q
Meaning of being virtuous?
A
- doing the right thing, at the right time, in the right way, in the right amount, toward the right people
8
Q
VICE, VIRTUE, VICE
A
- sweet spot is in the middle is called GOLDEN MEANS (virtue)
9
Q
Aristotle’s definition of courage
A
- midpoint between extremes of cowardice and recklessness
- courage is finding the right way to act
10
Q
Aristotle’s meaning of honesty
A
- knowing how to deliver hard truths gracefully
- how to break bad news gently, or to offer criticism in a way that’s constructive, rather than soul-crushing
11
Q
What is virtue?
A
- a skill, a way of living, and that’s something that can only really be learned through experience
- practical wisdom (kinda like street smart)
12
Q
Aristotle’s thoughts on practical wisdom
A
- character is developed through habituation– if you do a virtuous thing over and over again, eventually it will become part of your character
13
Q
Virtue Theory
A
- should become virtuous because if you are, then you can attain the pinnacle of humanity so you can achieve “Eudaimonia”
14
Q
Eudaimonia
A
a life well lived, human flourishing
15
Q
Life of Eudaimonia
A
- life of striving, pushing urself to ur limits, finding success
- eudaimonistic life = full of happiness that comes from achieving something really difficult, rather than just having it handed to you
- never satsified cus constantly making new goals, etc
- will face disappointments and failures
- sweet pleasure of sinking into bed at the end of tiring day cus satisfaction of knowing youve accomplished a lot and pushed yourself to be the very best person you could be
