Understanding Virtue Theory: Aristotle's Perspective

Introduction to Virtue Theory

• Virtue theory focuses on character rather than prescribed actions.
• Aristotle and other virtue theorists suggest that being a good person will lead to right actions naturally.
• Unlike other moral theories, it doesn't provide rules but rather emphasizes character development.

The Concept of Eudaimonia

• Eudaimonia is the idea of living a life well-lived or achieving human flourishing.
• It requires striving for excellence and continuous personal growth.

Proper Functioning and Nature

• Aristotle believed everything has a function and is considered 'good' when it fulfills its purpose.
• Humans, being rational and social animals, function well when utilizing reason and getting along socially.
• Virtue is in accordance with nature, not necessarily God's plan as in natural law theory.

Defining Virtue

• Virtue involves doing the right thing at the right time, in the right way, and in the right amount.
• Virtues are robust character traits leading to consistently good behavior.

The Golden Mean

• Virtue is the balance between two extremes, known as vices of deficiency and excess.
• Example: Courage is the midpoint between cowardice (deficiency) and recklessness (excess).

Examples of Virtues

• Courage: Assess situations wisely; act when you're capable but recognize limits.
• Honesty: Balance between brutal honesty and not saying necessary truths.
• Generosity: Avoid stinginess but don't give excessively or harmfully.

Developing Virtue

• Virtue is learned through experience, not books - akin to street smarts.
• Character is built through habituation, doing virtuous acts repeatedly.
• Learning from moral exemplars, people who embody virtue, is key.

Life of Eudaimonia

• Achieving eudaimonia involves striving, setting goals, and continuous improvement.
• It involves satisfaction in accomplishments and personal growth rather than comfort or ease.

Conclusion

• Virtue theory highlights the importance of character development for moral behavior.
• It emphasizes the journey toward becoming the best version of oneself, leading to a life of eudaimonia.
• Next topics to explore: the concept of moral luck.