Essay On Virtue Ethics

Virtual ethics is a method that focuses on the agent, not the action. This theory doesn’t tell one how to act, rather it tells us what sort of person one should be. Developed by the Greek philosopher Aristotle, virtue ethics centers its ideals on the central theme of character. The heart of virtue ethics is the search for Eudaimonia, which is roughly translated to the words happiness or flourishing. These are the types of traits that come from a particular type of character, something within us, not from external rewards or pleasure. Patience, temperance, courage, and justice are all virtues and considered a part of a flourishing life. Without these virtues, it could be difficult to be successful, have healthy relationships, or find happiness in life. According to Aristotle, virtue is a skill we can learn, and you can learn to be virtuous by emulating other virtuous persons …show more content…
A vast majority of people already understand these ideas and abide by them without having to consider if they are being morally wholesome in their life. Virtue ethics are easy to understand and applicable to everyday life and can account for much of human nature and its complexity. With virtue, we have a framework for happiness, goodness, and overall healthy well-being, as well as it still being considered relevant to today’s culture. “These virtues are formed in man by his doing the actions ... The good of man is a working of the soul in the way of excellence in a complete life” (Aristotle). While Aristotle focuses on ultimate fulfillment, he rejects the notion of pleasure, honor, or wealth as virtuous. These qualities border on the side of vices and are not considered to place value with regards to happiness. Virtue ethics is an excellent guide to allow personality, cultural beliefs, and personal views be pertinent in moral decision making while still being fulfilled and flourishing as a good