Virtue ethics

Question 1

What is virtue ethics?

Answer 1

-Aristotle
-Idea that by practicing virtuous behaviour, you can develop a virtuous character.
“We are what we repeatedly do” - Aristotle
-If you consistently practice virtuous characteristics, you will know what the right choice is in situations.

Question 2

Aristotle quote

Answer 2

“The good for man is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue” - Aristotle

Question 3

Aristotle’s ideas on justice and friendship

Answer 3

-Neither justice nor friendship have extremes of excess or deficiency.
-Both are altruistic/selfless, meaning love of others.

Question 4

Theoria

Answer 4

-Highest good
-The intellectual virtue of contemplation brings about flourishing to the highest level, leading to eudaimonia.

Question 5

What are the two categories of virtue?

Answer 5

Moral = qualities of character that are practiced e.g bravery, courage, patience.

Intellectual = qualities of mind that are taught and improved by instruction e.g practical wisdom, intuitive intelligence, arts, scientific knowledge.

Question 6

What is the Golden Mean?

Answer 6

-The mean between extremes of excess and deficiency, where the virtue lies.
-Having a balanced personality, able to display virtues that express a view of life that is based on reason.
-Relative to each situation.
-Rejects judging actions based on consequences.
-Focuses on greatest good for the greatest number.

“Virtuous actions must be pleasurable in themselves” - Aristotle