Ethical theories

Virtue Ethics

Virtue Ethics A category of ethical theories which see

actions as right or wrong depending on whether or not they are conductive to or flow

from a good character.

They are sometimes referred to as hero ethics

Virtue ethics works by asking:

“what would the hero do in this situation?”

Or, if contemplating an action

“would the hero do this or avoid it?

                                                                                  

So…

We should act in a way that is conductive

to a good character, an ideal person

We should avoid the things that are counter

productive to the formation of good character.

and

Christianity is an example of religious virtue ethics.

According to this view Jesus is the ideal and followers ought to be more

Jesus-like.

Virtue ethics do not set a minimal goal, but rather they set an ideal goal.

It is not, “Do not break the rule”

But rather

“Strive for excellence!”

Virtue Ethics is very often used in professional ethics :

(How would an ideal doctor/lawyer behave?)

It is also used to evaluate entire societies.

“ the us is the only modern western society to still employ the death sentence.”

i.e. no civilised (virtuous) nation employs the death penalty.

“ Any compassionate , enlightened (virtuous) society would guarantee minimal healthcare to its citizens

Problems

1.Where do these standards come from?

What justifies them?

2. Is there one set of standards for all human beings?

3. It only provides vague guidance as to

specific behaviourE.g. driving – be courteous, kind … rather than “drive

on the left.”

The main Principles of Virtue EthicsBased on the Philosophy of Aristotle and revived by

MacIntyre and Anscombe

• Based on Character not actions

• Greek concept – arête - virtue excellence• Virtue (Aristotle) an inner state arising from harmony,

health, beauty and strength of character.• Actions are good when they enhance the inner state.• three characteristics have to be in harmony: wisdom, coverage/self-control

• “what sort of person ought I be” rather than “what

should I do?”

• Balanced personality leads to good actions

• Aristotle's division of moral and intellectual virtues

Moral

couragepatience

friendlinessjustice

Intellectual

Practical wisdom

Technical and scientific skills

intelligence

• The two virtues combine to allow a person to live a happy satisfying life

• Eudaimonia ; (a contented state of being happy and

healthy and prosperous) the final goal of Human activity.