Virtue theory Learning plan #5 Don, Debby, Ashley
Virtue A virtue is a trait that contributes to a person functioning well as a human being A virtue is not just a feeling A person who “feels” brave but does not act on it is not brave A virtue is not just doing a given action on a given occasion
Summary The virtue theory focuses on attitudes, dispositions, or character traits that enable us to be and to act in ways that develop our human potential Examples: honesty, courage, faithfulness, trustworthiness, integrity
Summary our actions make us who we are
Contributions Aristotle everything functions for a distinct purpose “For all things that have a function or activity, the good and the well is thought to reside in the function”
Contributions cont.. Human function Rational self-regulation Humans are rational animals with reason
The Golden Mean Finding the middle between extremes of emotion or action Example-courage is the middle of cowardice and foolhardiness couragecowardice foolhardiness
Contributions cont.. St. Thomas Aquinas Human function determines virtue’s greatness Reason brings us closer to god Ultimate purpose Added theological virtues Faith, hope and charity
Differences St. Thomas Aquinas has a religious philosophy function= serve god Aristotle more interested in the science function=self regulation
Criticisms of the theory Neglects what people should be Determines how we should act Moral luck Self-centeredness
Criticisms Virtue ethics is criticized for not giving clear answers to ethical dilemmas, but it allows us each to make our own responses to situations life throws at us
Ethical dilemma The use of steroids in sports Fair play Used among teens today
Ethical dilemma Assisted suicide Virtues involved sufferer: courage, humility Families: caring, responsiveness, hospitality Doctors must care for life (Hippocratic oath)
Deaths under Oregon's Physician Assisted Suicide Act /10,000 total deaths /10,000 total deaths
Questions Do you think humans have a different function than self regulation? What do you think is the down side of this theory? Do you think people have the ability to change their virtues if born “morally unlucky”?