Virtue Ethics

Question 1

What was Aristotle’s focus when creating virtue ethics?

Answer 1

He focused on how we should live and how we can achieve ‘eudaimonia’

Question 2

How is virtue ethics descriptive rather than prescriptive?

Answer 2

It is based on adapting our behaviour to the particular circumstances of our lives, rather than applying general rules

Question 3

What is the human ‘ergon’?

Answer 3

Rationality

Question 4

What does Aristotle categorise as a ‘good human being’?

Answer 4

Someone who excels in rationality and virtuous action

Question 5

What is a virtue for Aristotle?

Answer 5

A disposition to act in a certain way in relevant circumstances

Question 6

What is the purpose of being virtuous?

Answer 6

For success in your own life, to achieve eudaimonia

Question 7

What is the golden mean?

Answer 7

The virtue that lies in between 2 vices- the vice of deficiency and excess

Question 8

Who chooses virtuous action?

Answer 8

A person of practical wisdom- a ‘phonimos’

Question 9

What is ‘akrasia’?

Answer 9

To choose what is not virtuous

Question 10

What are criticisms of virtue ethics?

Answer 10

• HUMAN NATURE - he assumes human nature and his idea that human nature is just rationality is one view. Existentialism claims that there is no defining human nature, no preexisting template.
• EGOISTICAL - Aristotle only provides the recipe for eudaimonia, there is no concern for others.
• ARBITARY - the particular virtues mentioned can be seen as a product of Aristotle’s environment. He enshrines pre-existing values of his society within philosophy.
• ELITIST - external factors determine whether or not you lead a good life. If eudaimonia is dominated by philosophical contemplation, only those fortunate to have time for this will be able to lead this life.
• VAGUE - does not explain exactly how to behave. There is a conflict in whether we should dedicate our lives to action or philosophical contemplation.