Explain the theory of virtue ethics.

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R.KING                                                                                                        

6A1

      A) Explain the theory of virtue ethics.

     

  Virtue ethics was previously discussed and examined by the early

philosophers: Plato and in particular Aristotle. Although the theory is old

fashioned, its popularity has resurfaced in recent times giving its ideas a

modern spin.

 

  According to the theory of virtue ethics, a person’s morality is judged not

on their actions but on their character and behaviour. In other words, the

person (the agent) should not ask what they should do, but should look at

the bigger picture and ask what kind of person they should become. This

is why virtue ethics contrasts greatly with many other forms of ethics as

they consider the right course of action.

 

  Aristotle believed that the main goal of every person’s life is to reach

‘eudaimonia’ an overall sense of happiness, fulfilment and well-being. He

saw this as the highest form of good as every person for no ulterior motive,

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would desire it for its own sake. He saw three different forms of happiness:

happiness as a life of enjoyment, happiness as a free member of society

and happiness a philosopher. Eudaimonia contained a fusion of all three.

He believed that in order to reach eudaimonia one must integrate moral

qualities, like being selfless into their own personality.

He said that eudaimonia could be achieved by consciously

practising the qualities needed everyday so that they slowly become a

habit and therefore grow to be part ...

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