Exam 17: Virtue Ethics

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Virtue ethics is a moral theory that focuses on the development of virtuous character traits in individuals in order to guide their actions and decisions. One of the priority problems for virtue ethics is the question of how to determine which virtues are the most important or should take precedence in moral decision-making. This problem arises because virtue ethics does not provide a clear hierarchy of virtues or a set of rules for determining which virtues should be prioritized in different situations. This problem is similar to a common objection to the Divine Command Theory, which is a moral theory that asserts that an action is morally right if and only if God commands it. The objection to the Divine Command Theory is that it does not provide a clear basis for determining which commands or moral principles should take precedence in conflicting situations. In both cases, the lack of a clear hierarchy or set of rules for prioritizing moral principles or virtues creates a problem for making moral decisions. However, this objection does not succeed in refuting virtue ethics. While it is true that virtue ethics does not provide a clear hierarchy of virtues, it does emphasize the importance of practical wisdom and the development of moral character in individuals. This means that individuals who have cultivated virtuous character traits are better equipped to make moral decisions in a way that is consistent with the overall goal of living a virtuous life. In this sense, virtue ethics offers a more flexible and nuanced approach to moral decision-making that takes into account the complexities of human life and the need for practical wisdom in navigating moral dilemmas. In conclusion, while the priority problem for virtue ethics is similar to a common objection to the Divine Command Theory, it does not succeed in refuting virtue ethics. Virtue ethics offers a valuable framework for moral decision-making that emphasizes the development of virtuous character traits and the importance of practical wisdom in navigating moral dilemmas. While it may not provide a clear hierarchy of virtues, it offers a more flexible and nuanced approach to ethics that is well-suited to the complexities of human life.