Virtue ethics Flashcards
what type of theory is virtue ethics?
non-consequentialist
why is virtue ethics non-consequentialist ?
because it is based on ‘how should i behave’ or ‘how should i live’
what is a virtue?What is a telos ?
A quality, The end or purpose
What type of ethics was Aristotles theory ?
Aretaic ethics (from the create meaning ‘excellence’.
What did Aristotle believe all humans have?
A purpose or function (telos)
what is a humans purpose?
to realise their potential and fulfill it’s goals.
develop into an excellecnt character rather than follow prescribed ethical norms
What is the ultimate aim for human life?
human flourishing (eudaimonia)
How do humans become virtuous ?
By developing the relevant characteristics
It is not about what people do, but the kind of person that they are.
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What are the two types of virtues?
intellectual and moral
what are intellectual virtues?
virtues that are developed under instruction
what are moral virtues?
virtues that are cultivated through habit.
Aristotle realised that not all people will attain their goals and virtues. but what is it essential to have?
a balance between intellectual and moral virtues.
What is the correct way to live ?
following the doctrine of the mean.
What is the doctrine of the mean ?
the perfect balance between two extremes.
What are the two extremes ?
vices of excess and vices of deficiency.
and example of a balance between vices.
VE= rashness VD= cowardice virtue = courage
Who is a modern virtue ethicist ?
Alasdair MacIntyre
What did AD believe about modern ethics ?
places too much emphasis on reason and not enough on people (their content and character)
what is the relationship between societies and virtues ?
As societies develop as do virtues.
what must lie underneath virtues ?
Good will of the person
How can we achieve moral excellence ?
Through practicing the virtues: justice, courage and honesty as they prevent people from becoming morally corrupt.
what is the problem of application ?
Hard to apply as there are no guidelines. unlike NML. There are no moral boundaries, even though some things are absolutely wrong.
how is the problem of application countered ?
by a supporter who would say that there is guidance because there is a list of virtues to be interpreted.
It makes the theory flexible as it does not prescribe fixed duties.
