Religion And VE - Incompatible

Question 1

Secular/ theistic

Answer 1

VE is a secular ethical system with no mention of God whereas religion is theistic (has God as source of morality). VE has sacred texts whilst religion has set texts (Christianity = 10 commandments)

However, they are both ethical systems of morality that have existed for many years

Question 2

Absolute/ relative

Answer 2

Religion (especially OT - 10 commandments) is deontological and absolute whereas VE is relative and teleological basing each decision on the people involved

However,

• NT is more relative
• some liberal Christians follow SE which is relative/ teleological
• VE always considers Cardinal virtues (absolute features)

Question 3

Individual/ community

Answer 3

VE focuses on self- improvement and the individual whereas religion is about improving society and benefitting the community “love your neighbour as yourself” (Mark 12:31)

However,

• analogy of the ship focuses on society as if we are all trained and achieve eudaimonia a polis can be created
• friendship = most imp virtue (involves others)
• religion can be individualistic (monks)

Question 4

Earth/ metaphysical

Answer 4

VE is about developing/ flourishing moral character on earth, whilst religion’s superior aim is the end goal of heavenly flourishing (metaphysical end)

However, both have an ultimate telos

Question 5

Self-realisation/ self sacrifice

Answer 5

VE is about self- realisation whereas religion is about self- sacrifice (matar)
Eg- giving things up to become better person (leading an ascetic life) monks