Seeing the light:

Aristotle’s virtue Ethics

Chs. 2.0 & 2.6

© 2012. Wanda Teays. All rights reserved.

Aristotle: Focus on Virtues & Character

• Emphasize moral character over duties or consequences of our actions.

• Think of the virtues of a good character—strive for those!

• Avoid vices—they are a bad idea if you want to build your moral character!

Aristotle

Not too much, not too little-

Aim for moderation—seek the middle path between extremes.

Example: Don’t be a wimp or rash & reckless, but try to be courageous.

Aristotle on Virtues

Aristotle looks at moral character and stresses the virtues we need to acquire

He sets out two categories of virtues:

ONE: intellectual virtues

TWO: moral virtues

The 5 Intellectual Virtues

• ONE: Creativity—Artistic skill & creative thinking

• TWO: Logical Knowledge—Analytical skills & logical reasoning

• THREE: Practical Wisdom—Knowing what to do and when to act for what’s best in life for oneself & others (“street smarts”)

The Intellectual Virtues

• FOUR: Philosophical WisdomBeing able to deal with the big questions, ideas, & ultimate things

• FIVE: Comprehension• Being able to evaluate & make judgments.

The Moral VirtuesValues, “Oughts,” and Traits of Character

–Courage– Self Control–Generosity–Noble (“Classy”)–Pride (Ambition)–Magnanimous– Even tempered

– Integrity–Witty–Good Natured–Modest–Righteous

Indignation

The Moral Virtues

CourageMean between Cowardly and Reckless

Self Control Mean between Self denial and Self-indulgence

GenerosityMean between Stingy and Wasteful

The Moral Virtues Virtues con….

Noble (“Classy”)Mean between Petty and Vulgar

Pride (Ambition)Mean between Self-deprecating and Boastful

MagnanimousMean between Timid and Self-centered

Moral Virtues con.

Even-TemperedMean between Callous and Hot-headed

Sincerity (Integrity)Mean between Apathetic and Boastful

WittyMean between Humorless and Buffoon

Moral Virtues con…

Good-naturedMean between Surly and Fawning (“leech”)

ModestMean between Shameless and Shy

Righteous IndignationMean between Malicious and Envious