What is Virtue Ethics?
A normative ethical theory focused on developing good character traits (virtues) rather than following rules or maximizing outcomes.
What is the ultimate goal of human life in Virtue Ethics?
Eudaimonia: flourishing or living well.
What is the Function Argument in Virtue Ethics?
Humans flourish by reasoning well, as reason is our unique function.
What are Virtues in the context of Virtue Ethics?
Traits that help us reason and act well (e.g., courage, temperance, truthfulness).
What is the Doctrine of the Mean?
Virtue lies between extremes — e.g., courage is between cowardice and recklessness.
What is Agent-Centered Ethics?
Right actions are those a virtuous person would choose.
How are virtues learned according to Virtue Ethics?
Virtues are learned through experience and practice, not innate.
What is the Skill Analogy in Virtue Ethics?
Developing virtue is like mastering a skill — it requires discipline and repetition.
What role do feelings play in Virtue Ethics?
True virtue aligns both reason and emotion.
What is Practical Wisdom?
A key virtue that helps us navigate complex moral situations by understanding context and applying virtues appropriately.
What is a criticism regarding the guidance of Virtue Ethics?
Critics argue virtue ethics doesn’t offer precise rules for action.
What is a potential issue with clashing virtues?
Situations may pit virtues against each other (e.g., truthfulness vs. compassion).
What is Cultural Relativity in the context of Virtue Ethics?
Different societies value different virtues — challenges Aristotle’s claim of universality.
What is Anthropocentrism in Virtue Ethics?
Focus on human flourishing may ignore animal welfare and environmental concerns.
What is a concern regarding flourishing vs. morality?
Sometimes virtuous actions don’t lead to personal flourishing (e.g., trauma from sacrifice).
What is a defense of Virtue Ethics regarding ethics’ precision?
Ethics is inherently imprecise; virtue ethics embraces complexity.
How does Practical Wisdom function in Virtue Ethics?
Practical wisdom resolves apparent clashes between virtues.
How can Virtue Ethics adapt to cultural diversity?
Virtue ethics can adapt to cultural diversity and expand beyond human-centered views (e.g., Nussbaum’s justice for animals).
What does flourishing include in the context of Virtue Ethics?
Flourishing includes social and moral dimensions — not just personal gain.
