Virtue Ethics Theory Essay

In normative theories, utilitarianism and deontology offer a reasoning process for evaluating an individual action based on its moral worth. As utilitarianism considers the consequences and outcomes of an action, deontology, on the other side considers intents or motives of the same action. Virtue ethics offers a neutral view on normative theories by considering the virtues and character of an individual involved in a given action. Aristotle argues that an action that a virtuous person does is always considered good. When an individual does an

The first cardinal virtue is prudence. Aristotle defined prudence as “recta ration agibillum,” which translates to “right person applied to a practice” (Papouli, 2019). Through prudence, one is able to judge between what is wrong and what is right in any situation they are faced with. A virtuous person is exercising prudence since they are not making mistakes. When one is making a mistake such as doing an abortion, they are not exercising prudence, hence not virtuous (Marquis, 1989).

The other virtue is fortitude. Papouli (2019) notes that fortitude often allows individuals to overcome fear and remain steady when facing obstacles. Through courage, a virtuous person will always make the most reasoned and reasonable decision and ensure that actions fulfill their functions; good. One can arise from natural fears through fortitude.

The Virtue ethics theory views human beings as either good or bad. According to Aristotle, a virtuous person always does a good thing in whatever situation, an action that fulfills its function. On the other side, one who does a bad thing, which does not fulfill its function, is considered not virtuous (Spitzer, 2011).

It is clear that the virtue ethics theory considers doing bad things as completely wrong. According to this theory, anything that a virtuous person does is always considered good as it fulfills some functions. For instance, in a situation such as pregnancy, giving birth fulfills its function, while abortion does not.

Virtue ethics theory is always subjective. This is because there is never any rule for moral conduct that can direct people to act in a given situation.

Virtue ethics theory often claims that a virtuous person always does the right. According to Papouli (2019), a good thing is one that fulfills its function; it can be caring for others, preserving life, or seeking the truth (Papouli, 2019). Therefore, both the end and the means should be good; fulfill function (Marquis, 1989).