Virtue Theory

Question 1

Aristotle’s…

Answer 1

… Nichomachean ethics- presents the idea of an end goal/ purpose that must be practiced to be achieved

Question 2

Brief outline of Virtue Ethics

Answer 2

Does not focus on the action, or the consequences, but on the excellence of character of the person doing the action (their virtue).
If you are virtuous- leads to happiness for yourself and others.
Ultimate goal of virtue is to find happiness through excellence, EUDAIMONIA.

Question 3

Aristotle’s perspective of man

Answer 3

• Goodness depends on how well something fulfills its function (a bad plant fails to grow).
• Determined the proper functioning of man, is to act according to reason and contribute to the flourishing of society.

Question 4

The Golden Mean

Answer 4

Listing of characteristics, sorted into deficiency, excess and the mean of the two. Human characteristics must fall into the mean to induce eudaimonia.

Question 5

Jesus’ teaching on virtue

Answer 5

Sermon on the mount- ‘Beatitudes’
- dispositions that receive God’s blessing and are paired with a reward for the behaviours.
-Mostly agreed on 8 Beatitudes.
- Later Jesus talks of personal qualities rather than action eg. warns against anger and lust instead of adultery or murder.
- Wanted people to aim for moral perfection, not blindly follow law.