Virtue Ethics

Question 1

Is virtue ethics relativist or objectivist

Answer 1

Objectivist, because it focuses on the virtuous traits that are seen as universally acceptable for living a good life

Question 2

Describe the theory of virtue ethics

Answer 2

The theory to which one should always focus on becoming a better person by being honest, kind, brave, and balanced to lead a fulfilling life

Virtue ethics does not concentrate on rules or principles (such as the principle of utility or the categorical imperative). Rather, it focuses on the kind of person we should be, on one’s character. Right actions are then derived from virtue, i.e. good character.

•Virtue ethics is person rather than action-based.
• It looks at the moral character of the person carrying out an action, rather than at ethical duties and rules, or the consequences of particular actions

Question 3

Strengths of virtue ethics

Answer 3

• acknowledges the complexity of what it means to be humans
• its a complete ethical theory (unlike Kant and Bentham)
• it appeals to both emotions, rationality, and habits all at once
• motivation is not the problem

Question 4

Weaknesses of virtue ethics

Answer 4

• the theory never yields a yes or no
• priority problem
• tragic dilemmas (a situation in which a good person’s life will be ruined no matter what they do, even if they’re not at fault)
• it’s a demanding theory (some virtuous people may set a standard of excellence that is almost impossible to reach, going too far)
• problem on deciding who are the role models (how do we decide who our role models should be, especially if different ppl endorse different candidates?)

Question 5

Consult PPT Week 13 / course pack, from pp. 77-85

Question 6

3 components of virtue ethics

Answer 6

1. Intellectual component: practical reasoning
2. Emotions that align with the voice of reason
3. Habitual action

Question 7

what’s a virtue in virtue ethics?

Answer 7

Positive character (honest, loyal, respect etc)
Virtue = goal is to be as virtuous as possible

Question 8

Vices

Answer 8

Negative character (dishonest, liar, coward)

Question 9

what’s a moral examplar?

Answer 9

someone who sets a fine example and is a role model for the rest of us

Question 10

Virtue ethics insists that we understand right action by references to what a virtuous person would do. Explain

Answer 10

It means that an act is morally right just because it is the one that a virtuous person would do

Question 11

True or false. Moral understanding can only be gained through training, experience, and practice

Answer 11

T

Question 12

How is virtues defined ?

Answer 12

By a pattern of behaviour, perceptions, thoughts and motives