Ethical Virtue Is A State Of The Soul - 1242 Words

The definition of ethical virtue is one of the difficult themes that are often discussed by many philosophers. In Nicomachean Ethicsâ… ¡.6, Aristotle defines ethical virtue as ‘(a) a state that decides,(b) in a mean, (c) the mean relative to us, (d) which is defined by reference to reason, (e) i.e. to the reason by reference to which the intelligent person would define it.’ (NEâ… ¡.6) But, this definition itself is complex. Then, in this paper, I will explain what he means by this and evaluate this definition. First, Aristotle claims virtue should be a state that makes a human good and makes him function well. In Nicomachean Ethicsâ… ¡.5, he concluded that ethical virtue is a state of the soul. On the basis of this conclusion, he starts to discuss what kind of state is ethical virtue. Then, as a premise, he defines every virtue should make its possessors be in a good state and perform their functions well. The virtue of a horse, for example, makes the horse exc ellent because it is good at galloping, at running, and at carrying its rider. In the case of human being, therefore, the virtue is the state that makes a human being good and perform his or her function well. Next, he claims mean states should be ethical virtue. A mean is a middle or intermediate between excess and deficiency. He claims those extreme states are vices because they make human being perform worse. Bravery, for example, is a virtue that makes people deal with a difficult situation with confidence. If, however,Show MoreRelatedPlato And Aristotle s Theories Of Utilitarianism And Kantian Ethics1408 Words   |  6 Pagesthe importance of virtue in an individual’s life. Plato believed that purity of the soul was the most important thing in life and can be achieved by mastering the four virtues: justice, wisdom, courage, and moderation. Aristotle believed that the goal of human life was to achieve happiness, which is made possible by the cultivation of a just soul. B oth of these ancient theories showcase the periods focus on individual happiness. The ancients focused more on the formation of virtue within an individualRead MoreThe Ethical Egoist in Platos Republic Essay989 Words   |  4 Pages The ethical egoist is one who believes that it is morally right to act strictly in ones own self-interest. Understandably, this belief poses a threat to social cooperation and, therefore, clearly introduces a significant political problem. I believe that the best example of ethical egoism is displayed in Book I of Platos The Republic. In this Book, Plato introduces the idea of ethical egoism, explains the political problem posed by it, and addresses the problem through the words of SocratesRead More Aristotle and the Book of Nicomanchean Ethics Essay1496 Words   |  6 PagesEthics, Aristotle states that the ultimate human goal or end is happiness. Aristotle describes the steps required for humans to obtain happiness. Aristotle states that activity is an important requirement of happiness. He states that a happy person cannot be inactive. He then goes on to say that living a life of virtue is something pleasurable in itself. The virtuous person takes pleasure in doing virtuous things. The role of virtue is an important one for Aristotle. Without virtue, it seems one cannotRead MoreImmanuel Kant, John Stuart Mill, Plato, and Aristotle: Morals and Ethical Codes1169 Words   |  5 PagesWhat is the appropriate action? It is a controversial question that is a focal point for moral and ethical codes. 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Plato believesRead MoreAristotle s Doctrine Of The Mean Real Quick1571 Words   |  7 PagesAristotle discusses one of his most famous principles in great detail, the ‘Doctrine of the Mean’. It declares that a moral (ethical) action is a mean between two extremes, and that a virtuous person is capable of choosing the mean consistently. Although the first example of means given above is arithmetic in nature, Aristotle’s doctrine applies to a much wider set. Ethical virtue, Aristotle asserts, is a habit, disposed toward action by deliberate choice, being at the mean relative to us, and definedRead MorePlatos Moral Theory Essay1747 Words   |  7 Pageslive an ethical life they must do so as citizens of a just and rational state. Plato expresses that the individual and the state must share the same principles of justice. In a state, different classes work together for the good of the state for all citizens. Likewise, within the individual, the different parts have to work together for the overall good of the individual. Plato believes that it is the soul which gives an individual the ability to be a just person. It is through the soul that oneRead MoreEthical Theories Of Ethical Egoism993 Words   |  4 PagesEthical egoism is a consequentialist normative ethical theory. There are two forms of ethical e goism. The first is individual ethical egoism which states that I should act in ways that are in my own best interest. The second form is universal ethical egoism which states that everyone one should act in their own best interest. In both forms, individuals should only consider others interest to the extent that it benefits their own well-being. The determination of morality is based off whether or notRead MoreVirtue Theory. I.Ethics/Virtue Theory As It Applies To1159 Words   |  5 PagesVirtue Theory I. Ethics/Virtue theory as it applies to business The form of applied ethics that examines ethical principles and moral or ethical problems that arise in a business environment in known as business ethics. It applies to all components of business conduct and is relevant to the conduct of entire organizations as well as individuals. These ethics originate from the individuals. An organization is formed from individuals; therefore, the organization’s ethical standards can be tracedRead MoreThe Role Of Happiness . â€Å"Happiness Is The Meaning And The1326 Words   |  6 Pagesend of human existence† (Aristotle). In ethics, we study the place of morality in a social construct, where happiness is the core of ethical concern. Happiness for the individual, happiness for the majority, happiness for nature. What is the key to a happy life? Aristotle believes the key is eudaimonia, or a state of having a good soul or being in a contented state of being healthy, happy, and prosperous. Eudaimonia is often used to refer to the ri ght actions that result in the well-being of the