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Because his system is based on virtues, it allows for a number of contextual and situational variations for actions. Because it does not provide strict moral laws that must be followed in all situations, it is, in this aspect, more easily followed than something like Kant's categorical imperatives. These virtues are found within the extremes, and (from an Aristotelian viewpoint) these extremes can be experienced by almost all humans. Due to this universality, these virtues could potentially be found by all who strive for it.
However, there are issues with Aristotle's ethical system. Aristotle clearly intended his writings and thought for men and not women. As with his predecessors, Aristotle holds women to be inferior to men. The system of ethics found in Aristotle's writings is not even inclusive of all men, though. Aristotle supposes his readers are Athenian citizens (or at least of equal level) and have their basic needs taken care of. This then excludes slaves and foreigners of his time, as well as a large number of people in today's …show more content…
This is not the case, as emotions often influence moral decisions and not all moral problems can be solved through rationality alone. Another issue with the concept of morality being rooted in reason is the possibility that reason is used as rationalization of predetermined expectations and plans rather than a search for the truth/moral. If this were potentially the case, much of Aristotle's account of ethics would then be thrown into question.
Because of the complexities in the philosophy of ethics, the question of whether Aristotle's virtue theory of ethics is convincing (to the point that it should be implemented) cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. While it does have simplicity, which is crucial for many that do not wish to spend large quantities of time looking into the implications of their actions, it does not seem entirely adequate in today's world (Aristotle's social context
However, there are issues with Aristotle's ethical system. Aristotle clearly intended his writings and thought for men and not women. As with his predecessors, Aristotle holds women to be inferior to men. The system of ethics found in Aristotle's writings is not even inclusive of all men, though. Aristotle supposes his readers are Athenian citizens (or at least of equal level) and have their basic needs taken care of. This then excludes slaves and foreigners of his time, as well as a large number of people in today's …show more content…
This is not the case, as emotions often influence moral decisions and not all moral problems can be solved through rationality alone. Another issue with the concept of morality being rooted in reason is the possibility that reason is used as rationalization of predetermined expectations and plans rather than a search for the truth/moral. If this were potentially the case, much of Aristotle's account of ethics would then be thrown into question.
Because of the complexities in the philosophy of ethics, the question of whether Aristotle's virtue theory of ethics is convincing (to the point that it should be implemented) cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. While it does have simplicity, which is crucial for many that do not wish to spend large quantities of time looking into the implications of their actions, it does not seem entirely adequate in today's world (Aristotle's social context